] - African leaders from across the continent have gathered in the capital for the 25th summit of the African Union (AU), which runs until 15 June, under the theme: "Year of women empowerment and development towards Agenda 2063."
The 25th AU Summit is being hosted by South Africa for the first time since the formation of the AU in Durban in 2002.
The Summit follows the World Economic Forum on Africa, which was held in Cape Town from 3 to 5 June.
According to the Department of International Relations and Co-operation (Dirco), it is an opportunity for South Africa to showcase to the world a country that embodies the spirit of partnership and commitment to Africa's socio-economic development through Agenda 2063.
The summit began with the 30th ordinary session of the Permanent Representatives Committee, convened at the International Relations and Co-operation Department offices yesterday.
The session which was co-chaired by South African International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane discussed the agenda
prepared for the 25th AU Summit, to be held later this week.
prepared for the 25th AU Summit, to be held later this week.
It is expected that, leading to the Heads of States summit which follows, discussions at this summit will focus on the imminent adoption of the Agenda 2063 agreed by member states in 2013.
Agenda 2063 is a call for action and a road map to achieve continental development goals. It represents a collective effort and an opportunity for Africa to regain its power to determine its own destiny, and is underpinned by the AU vision to build an integrated, prosperous and peaceful Africa, an Africa driven and managed by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the international arena.
