Brussels, 16/03/2015 (Agence Europe) - Even if poverty continues to feed the conflicts in Africa, and the jihadists of Boko Haram and Islamic State (IS) bring terror to rule, the EU's foreign affairs ministers refuse to be pessimistic when it comes to Africa. On Monday 16 March, the ministers all agreed on saying that Africa cannot be reduced to the crises that are currently shaking it, given this continent's economic potential - a continent rich in natural resources, rich in a young population and in which some countries have been recording continuous growth rates of 5.5% or 6% over recent years.
During a strategic debate on Africa's peace, security, economic development and prosperity (see EUROPE 11274), the EU's foreign affairs ministers stated that the EU (which has been linked to Africa through a strategic partnership and a common strategy since 2007) should help the African countries exploit their full potential.
Several ministers stated how important it is to help the African countries take on a more prominent role in resolving conflicts, and to continue the EU's support for improving African capacities for peace - especially as part of the EU's new Train and Equip initiative, for which Somalia and Mali have been identified for the implementation of pilot projects.
Some delegations at the debate insisted on the EU focusing more on multiple African regional organisations (such as IGAD), which are becoming more effective in conflict resolution.
The ministers underlined the economic opportunities that Africa offers and the importance of involving the private sector to a greater extent in order to contribute to the continent's economic development.
Several ministers underscored the importance of developing partnerships so as to leave behind the donor-recipient model in order to produce a more balanced relationship based on more political dialogue.
High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini insisted on the EU focusing on young people and women, and on helping them compete in the sustainable development of African countries. In Mogherini's view, climate change is an area of common interest in which cooperation between the EU and Africa should be stepped up. (Aminata Niang)