Launching of the Common African Position (CAP): statement by Carlos Lopes UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ECA

Abstract

Statement by Carlos Lopes UN Under-Secretary-General and Executive Secretary of ECA at the Launching of the Common African Position (CAP). Mr. Lopes, on his remarks highlighted that, Africa’s recent socio-economic performance and experience with the MDGs provides useful pointers for how the continent should position itself in the debates that are shaping this agenda. The continent is undoubtedly making substantial progress towards many goals, targets and indicators and has achieved remarkable growth in the past decade. The challenge is for Africa to hold on to the CAP principles and negotiate its priorities for effective implementation of these noble intentions. We must all join the AUC in ensuring that Africa is able to negotiate its CAP priorities successfully and not dilute the principles and objectives of this agenda for other agendas. From now onwards, the main focus should be getting the CAP fully owned by all Africans.