The European Union and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) launched their first comprehensive partnership dialogue today in Djibouti, marking a significant milestone in their collaborative efforts to address peace and security challenges in the Horn of Africa and beyond.
In his opening remarks, H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu, the IGAD Executive Secretary, underscored the crucial role of IGAD-EU collaboration in addressing the complexpeace and security challenges affecting the Horn of Africa and its neighbouring regions.
“Today’s dialogue stands as a testament to the unwavering commitment of both the EU and IGAD towards addressing the intricate peace and security challenges in the Horn of Africa and its peripheries. Through our joint efforts, we embark on a journey of deeper collaboration, one that prioritizes mutual understanding, proactive
engagement, and a shared vision for sustainable peace and development in the region.” He noted.
H.E. Sylvie Tabesse, the EU Ambassador to Djibouti and IGAD, echoed this sentiment in her opening remarks, emphasizing the importance of the dialogue in fostering a deeper political partnership between the EU and IGAD.
The dialogue comes on the heels of the IGAD Capacity Building Financial Agreement, signed three weeks prior, aiming at enhancing technical and programmatic cooperation. Today’s discussions focused on political matters, particularly the peace processes in the Horn of Africa, where IGAD plays an important role.
Participants underscored the EU’s continued support for IGAD-led peace initiatives, most notably through active engagement of its Special Representative to the Horn of Africa, Ms. Annette Weber. The discussions revolved around the current security situation in the region and beyond.
The potential ways to resolve current conflicts were equally discussed. The parties agreed to continue dialogue on political and security matters under the overarching principles of mutual respect and accountability, shared values, equality between partners, and with a view of fostering constructive engagement and consensus building.
With a series of common objectives identified, the EU-IGAD Partnership Dialogue represents a pivotal step towards a more integrated approach to peace and security in the region.
Download attached Press Release in both English and French.
Press Release – The EU-IGAD Partnership Dialogue in Djibouti
