Africa’s Challenges, Opportunities Conference Crucial to Forge Future Cooperation: IFA

Addis Ababa: The conference convened on Africa's challenges and opportunities in Addis Ababa is crucial to foster future cooperation among various countries and partners, according to Institute of Foreign Affairs(IFA).The Institute of Foreign Affairs, in collaboration with the Al Jazeera Center for Studies, successfully concluded a two-day conference today, themed "Africa: Challenges of Fragility and Capitalizing on International Competition."Abdi Zenebe, Deputy Director General of the Institute of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that the conference aimed to enhance the visibility of Africa and Ethiopia in a complex global environment.He acknowledged that while many African countries face significant challenges, such as political instability and economic difficulties, there are also numerous opportunities for growth, including emerging markets, natural resources, and international partnerships.Abdi stated that the conference will further strengthen Africa-Arab relations, adding that Ethiopia has leveraged this platform to promote its peace initiatives, development efforts, and regional integration.He underscored the importance of ensuring access to the sea for Ethiopia's economic development, asserting that the country's growth interests would not negatively impact its neighbors.Abdi expressed hope that the conference would raise awareness of Ethiopia's clear position in the region, while also highlighting the country's commitment to its growth interests.The deputy director general added that Ethiopia actively participated in the conference, presenting both the challenges and opportunities facing the Horn of Africa.Panelists revealed the significant weaknesses in the region's multilateral frameworks, recommending urgent consultations among stakeholders about need to revitalizing cooperation.Ethiopia's military involvement in Somalia has been crucial in combating Al-Shabaab and to wider stability in the region.As global powers compete for influence, African nations must navigate both opportunities a nd challenges, particularly regarding economic partnerships and decision-making autonomy.In this context, the conference is viewed as a vital step towards fostering future cooperation among African nations and their global partners.The event brought together experts, policymakers, and representatives from think tanks across the Middle East and Africa to discuss pressing issues, including regional security, the legacy of fragility, and foreign engagement.Source: Ethiopian News Agency