Africa-Press – Ethiopia. The African Union political affairs, peace and security commissioner Bankole Adeoye called on member states to enhance their collective efforts to effectively address conflicts and adapt to evolving threats and challenges in the continent.
The African Union (AU) Commission held its 16th Ordinary Session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defense, Safety and Security (STCDSS) in Addis Ababa today.
Attendees include African Ministers of Defense, Internal Affairs, and Heads of National Institutions in Charge of Safety and Security, High Official Representatives from AU Member States, as well as from the Regional Economic Communities and Regional Mechanisms (RECs/RMs).
This year’s meeting will serve as a platform for Member States to collaborate, share insights, and reinforce collective efforts in addressing emerging security challenges on the continent.
It also serves as a platform for the Commission to provide progress updates on implementation of decisions of the STCDSS and other policy organs and for priorities related to peace and security on the continent for continuous guidance by Member States.
The meeting underscores the AU’s commitment to enhancing peace, security, and stability in Africa.
In his opening remark at the occasion AU political affairs, peace and security commissioner Bankole Adeoye stressed the need for collective commitment to promoting peace and security in Africa.
He highlighted the challenges of continental peace and security, including persistent threats from terrorism, violent extremism and hostile armed groups in various regions.
Commissioner Bankole further emphasized the critical timing of the meeting and underscored the necessity for collective support from member states to effectively address conflicts and adapt to evolving to threats and challenges.
Chairperson of the meeting, Minister of National Defense of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, Hanena Ould Sidi on his part highlighted that AU member states are confronted with numerous peace and security challenges stemming from internal and external factors.
He noted the difficulties posed by unconstitutional changes of government and the withdrawal of some member states from continental bodies.
The STCDSS meeting was preceded by the 19th Ordinary Session of the African Chiefs of Defense Staff and Heads of Safety and Security Services (ACDS/HSS) held on 4 June 2024, and the Preparatory Meeting of Experts for the 16th Ordinary Session of the Specialized Technical Committee on Defense, Safety and Security convened on 3 June 2024, respectively.
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