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Volodymyr Zhelensky spoke via video conference on Monday, June 20, behind closed doors and in front of the extended AU Bureau, which includes the AU President, the Chairman of the AU Commission and accredited ambassadors. The Ukrainian president’s speech comes after President Mackie Sal visited Russia on June 3 to demand a resumption of exports of Russian and Ukrainian cereals, on which some African countries depend.
“ Africa hostages to those who started the war against our state “The Ukrainian president started during his speech at the AU, and tough talks are underway.” Ban Ukrainian ports “Volodymyr is trying to get Zelensky.” Strong commitment from African countries “, Says one researcher, especially to weigh in with UN officials.
The President of Ukraine sought to unite and mobilize the countries of the continent for the cause of Ukraine. He has begun some unexpected endeavors, such as appointing a Ukrainian special envoy to Africa and hosting a major Africa-Ukraine conference.
Africa counts one-fourth of the votes in the UN General Assembly. But nearly half the continent did not vote in a referendum three months ago condemning the Russian occupation. Of course, he wants to maintain neutrality, another researcher believes. But the desire not to offend Russia, a powerful trading and military partner on the continent.
Some reactions
Volodymyr Zhelensky did not come to the occupied territory with the African Union. Our correspondent in Addis Ababa recalled that his speech had been postponed several times since April. Noé Hochet-Bodin. This Monday, it did not provoke much interest, with only four African heads of state following suit.
Considered a continental meeting, the meeting ended between the President of Ukraine and the Expanded Bureau of the African Union. The reluctance of African countries to listen to the Ukrainian president’s speech may be the only negative aspect of the meeting.
Ibrahim Kane: “This meeting […] Finally between the President of Ukraine and the Extended Office of the African Union
For its part, the African Union did not comment and was loyal to the non-aligned approach in this conflict. Its priority is to transport fertilizers and grain to the continent, part of which is blocked by the siege of the port of Odessa.
On social websites, AU President Maggie Sol, Thanked the Ukrainian president for his intervention, recalling Africa’s commitment to respecting the rules of international law, resolving conflicts peacefully and respecting trade freedom. “ The instability of Africa due to famine is as important as the end of the war in Ukraine “The president of Senegal said.
I thank the President EZelenskyyUa Addressed his friend today at a virtual meeting of the Extended Bureau of@_AfricanUnion. Africa is committed to respecting the rule of law, peaceful settlement of conflicts and freedom of trade. pic.twitter.com/63jZCvamix
– Macky Sall (ackMacky_Sall) June 20, 2022
A position reiterated by the head of the AU Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, recalled the need for urgent dialogue to end the conflict.
Roland Marshall (Science Go): “Zhelensky thinks Africa can play a big role in putting pressure on Moscow”
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