Foreign Minister of Azerbaijan Elmar Mammadyarov has made remarks at a debate on cooperation between the United Nations and regional organizations at the Security Council.
Mammadyarov said "Over the last decade, the role of the African Union and sub-regional organizations has increased significantly. Indeed, not all regional organizations may boast of their ability and political will to understand the root causes of armed conflicts and to contribute effectively to their resolution."
According to Mammadyarov, "As a country suffering from the occupation of the significant part of its territory and the forcible displacement of hundreds of thousands of its citizens, Azerbaijan fully realizes the threats and challenges affecting the countries with unresolved conflicts, including those in Africa."
The African Union has made great efforts with regard to promote peace, security and stability on the continent and demonstrated its ability to take the lead. The launch of the African Peace and Security Architecture and the establishment of its constitutive elements, as well as the African Union`s peace support operations authorized by the Security Council should be particularly noted.
The Minister noted "Over the recent years, we have seen progress that has been achieved in developing the strategic relationship between the United Nations and the African Union in the area of peace and security. At the same time, we have to admit that challenges still remain and more should be done to further strengthen this relationship to effectively address common collective security concerns in Africa." "It is critical that we further strengthen our joint efforts to prevent conflicts before they occur. Greater focus in the area of conflict prevention and mediation acquires additional significance. Development of common guidelines by the United Nations and the African Union as a framework for mediation in Africa would contribute to achieving this objective. It is crucial that all Member States strictly adheres to their obligations as laid down in the United Nations Charter with respect to the sovereignty, territorial integrity and political independence of States."
Mammadyarov said "It is important that the UN Security Council and the Peace and Security Council of the African Union, as well as the secretariats of both organizations further enhance their relationship, including through annual meetings and more intensified informal communication between them."
"Over the recent period, Azerbaijan has significantly developed its cooperation with the African Union and its Member States. The status of observer with the African Union allowed my country to advance mutually beneficial relations and dialogue."
The Minister pointed out "Azerbaijan is actively participating in implementing various assistance programs for Africa. We responded to the appeals of the respective governments and international organizations to provide urgent aid aimed at addressing the humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa and other African countries. Furthermore, we contributed to support the Institution and Capacity Building Program of the African Union Commission and offered scholarships for diplomats from African countries to study in Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy."
"Azerbaijan has also joined the work of one of the Peacebuilding Commission`s country-specific configurations and looks forward to continue its efforts in this regard. We have started consultations with the relevant stakeholders to apply in Africa our rich experience in the field of demining, provided by Azerbaijan National Agency for Mine Action."

AzerTAc