Appointment of Fathallah Sijilmassi
In a significant development for African diplomacy, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, the chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC), has officially announced the appointment of Moroccan diplomat Fathallah Sijilmassi as the new special envoy for the G20 and global affairs. This announcement, made on September 19, 2026, is a strategic move aimed at enhancing the African Union’s collaboration with global institutions and ensuring that Africa's priorities are adequately represented in international decision-making processes.
The statement from the AUC emphasized the importance of this role, highlighting that Sijilmassi’s appointment is part of the ongoing efforts to amplify Africa's voice on critical matters such as global governance, international financial architectures, sustainable development initiatives, trade, climate change, and technological advancements. In his new capacity, Sijilmassi will support the chairperson of the AUC in fostering Africa's engagement with the G20 and other multilateral platforms, facilitating consultations with member states and international partners to promote unified African positions on these pressing issues.
Sijilmassi's Diplomatic Background
Fathallah Sijilmassi brings a wealth of experience to this pivotal role, having held numerous senior positions on both national and international stages. His previous roles include serving as the secretary-general of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) and as Morocco’s ambassador to key cities such as Paris and Brussels. Notably, in October 2021, he was appointed as the director general of the African Union Commission, further solidifying his expertise and influence within the realm of African diplomacy.
This new appointment not only highlights Sijilmassi's capabilities as a seasoned diplomat but also reflects the African Union's commitment to enhancing its strategic partnerships and ensuring that the continent's interests are prioritized within the global arena.
As reported by en.yabiladi.com.
