Statement by the Spokesperson on the recent appointments of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development

29.11.2019
Brussels

The Summit of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has agreed on Sudan as its new Chair and a new Executive Secretary, former Foreign Minister of Ethiopia, Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu. 

At a moment of profound change in the region, the IGAD is more than ever key to enhancing regional stability and economic development in the Horn of Africa. National challenges can be better tackled if the region works together. A resilient region will benefit more from partners' support.

The European Union has always been a strong supporter of the IGAD with current projects amounting to a total of €195 million. These projects are contributing in particular to strengthening peace efforts and resilience, promoting free movement of persons and transhumance as well as natural resource management and supporting regional responses on climate change, biodiversity and maritime security. 

The European Union is looking forward to further strengthening its collaboration under the new leadership and pays tribute to the outgoing one.

Daniel Puglisi
Press Officer for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management/Foreign Affairs and Security Policy
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