President Taye Atske Selassie of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia stated that Africa is at a crucial historical juncture to make an economic growth transition.
The 57th Continental Conference of Ministers of Finance and Economic Planning of the African Economic Commission is being held at the ministerial level.
During the forum, President Taye stated that Africa is at a crucial historical juncture to make an economic growth transition. He also said that realizing Africa's aspiration for a borderless free trade in goods and services requires work that goes beyond mere wishes.
He emphasized that concrete actions and strategic commitment are needed to address issues that have long hindered Africa's trade system.
In this regard, he stressed that countries should not only ratify the African Continental Free Trade Area agreement but also translate it into action and work diligently by establishing successful national cooperation committees.
He also stated that African countries should enhance infrastructure investment, value-added productivity, the growth of Pan-African research, a transparent and predictable investment framework, and the capacity of the digital economy.
He emphasized the need to work extensively on the growth of micro, small, and medium enterprises, infrastructure connectivity, job creation, women's participation, and strengthening the capacity of the continental digital trading system.
From this perspective, he announced that Ethiopia is focusing on infrastructure development projects that play a crucial role in African trade integration.
For example, he explained that the Ethio-Djibouti railway line, as well as road, electricity, telecommunications, and water infrastructure constructions, are examples of continental economic integration.