Africa Trade Forum 2012: statement by Carlos Lopes Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary

Abstract

Statement by Carlos Lopes Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary at the Africa Trade Forum 2012. Mr. Lopes, on his remarks highlighted that, the Africa Trade Forum, which brings together different trade constituencies from around the continent, has become a key feature of the continental trade landscape. Our purpose rather should be to contextualize the current situation with regard to building on the political expression of support for the continental trade agenda and mobilizing broad based support for actualizing this vision. We must demonstrate that Africa’s current economic performance can be reinforced by diversification and is not merely attributable to a scramble for its resources.