The recent joint meetings held in New York between the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council (PSC), the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), and the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC) from October 21 to 23 concluded successfully, with notable participation from the Kingdom of Morocco. This gathering focused on vital African priorities concerning peace and security, peacebuilding initiatives, and enhancing collaboration between the AU and the UN.
Representing Morocco was Ambassador Mohammed Arrouchi, the Kingdom’s Permanent Representative to the AU and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. During the 11th informal joint seminar, Morocco had the honor of serving as the keynote speaker on the significant theme of “Youth, Peace, and Security.” Arrouchi eloquently emphasized the crucial role that African youth play in conflict prevention, mediation, and peacebuilding. He called for their increased involvement in decision-making processes and highlighted the necessity of promoting their economic empowerment as a pathway to sustainable peace.
In addition to discussing youth involvement, the Ambassador addressed the critical issue of protecting children affected by armed conflicts. He urged for concrete actions to translate continental commitments into effective measures, advocating for enhanced cooperation between the AU and the UN. His remarks stressed the importance of protecting, rehabilitating, and reintegrating children who have been associated with armed groups back into society.
The discussions during these meetings also touched upon the pressing challenges facing peacebuilding in Africa, such as securing adequate financing for these efforts and ensuring that initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable peace are owned and led by national stakeholders. The meeting with the UN Secretary-General allowed the PSC members to align their strategies and focus on the African continent’s priorities regarding peace, security, and stability.
As reported by sahara-news.org.
