AU, UN chiefs reaffirm resolve to deepen strategic cooperation
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia (PANA) - UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres and African Union Commision (AUC) Chairperson, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, have reaffirmed their shared resolve to deepen strategic cooperation in line with Africa’s continental priorities as articulated in its Agenda 2063 and the purposes and principles of the UN Charter.
A press release said this was at a meeting in Addis Ababa on the margins of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU.
The meeting also discussed regional peace and security, sustainable development, and inclusive economic transformation.
The two leaders underscored that Africa’s industrialisation is indispensable to achieving the continent’s growth trajectory, generating dignified employment for its youthful population, and consolidating long-term stability, the press release said.
They also reaffirmed their commitment to advancing structural transformation, value addition, and resilient economies consistent with the aspirations of Agenda 2063.
Mr. Youssouf and Mr Guterres emphasised that reform of the UN Security Council remains an urgent and historic imperative.
They reiterated that, in the interest of equity, justice and enhanced legitimacy of the multilateral system, Africa must be accorded permanent representation on the Security Council, consistent with the Common African Position.
Mr. Youssouf expressed appreciation for Mr. Guterres' steadfast commitment to Africa and to the strengthening of multilateralism at a time of heightened global uncertainty.
He underscored that the AU–UN partnership remains a cornerstone of effective global governance and a vital instrument for advancing peace, security and sustainable development.
Mr. Guterres commended the AUC Chairperson’s leadership in elevating the AU's voice and agency within global diplomacy.
He recognised Africa’s constructive and influential role in advancing multilateral reform efforts, including in the context of the Pact for the Future, where the continent has demonstrated principled and forward-looking leadership.
The UN Secretary-General reaffirmed that the AU stands as the UN’s most strategic multilateral partner, noting the AU’s increasingly central role in shaping global peace and security architecture, conflict prevention and mediation efforts, and development cooperation.
The Secretary-General further highlighted the risks posed by the concentration of capital flows in emerging economies at the expense of developing countries, including in Africa.
In this regard, they both agreed to intensify joint advocacy with international financial institutions and global financial actors to ensure that Africa’s development financing needs are adequately addressed, including through fairer access to capital, debt sustainability measures, and reforms of the international financial architecture.
“The meeting reaffirmed the enduring commitment of the African Union and the United Nations to principled multilateralism, collective leadership, and strengthened cooperation in pursuit of peace, prosperity and sustainable development for Africa and the world,” the press release said.
-0- PANA MA 13Feb2026
