Latest news with #regionalintegration
Zawya
7 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
GCC secretary-general stresses commitment to completing Gulf railway project on schedule
RIYADH — Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Secretary-General Jasem Albudaiwi reaffirmed on Wednesday the bloc's commitment to completing the GCC railway project according to its planned schedule, underscoring its role in enhancing development and prosperity across member states. His remarks came during a progress meeting held at the GCC General Secretariat in Riyadh, where senior officials from the Secretariat and the Gulf Railway Authority reviewed the latest updates on the transnational railway initiative. Albudaiwi was briefed by the Authority's Director General through a visual presentation detailing the project's current status, implementation milestones, and the ongoing coordination between member states. He commended the advanced progress and efforts made by the specialized teams within the member countries and the Gulf Railway Authority, noting that the project represents a key pillar of regional integration. The secretary-general also urged the Authority to intensify its efforts to ensure the timely delivery of the project, emphasizing that the railway will meet the aspirations of Gulf citizens and serve as a cornerstone of economic and logistical connectivity within the region. © Copyright 2022 The Saudi Gazette. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
10-07-2025
- Politics
- Zawya
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) celebrates its fiftieth anniversary in Cotonou: a march for regional unity and solidarity
As part of the celebrations marking the fiftieth anniversary of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the ECOWAS Representation in Benin, with the support of the Beninese Government, the West African Power Pool (WAPP) and the Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre (MMCC) Zone E, organised a commemorative march in Cotonou on Saturday 28th of June 2025. Titled the 'Jubilee Walk', the event brought together over 300 participants from state and diplomatic institutions, ECOWAS specialised agencies, project partners, West African communities, youth organisations, NGOs, students and teachers. The march set off from the Place de l'Amazone at 7.00am and took a looping route through the Place Bio Guéra, returning to its starting point at around 10.00am. It was led by a high-level delegation including Ambassador Amadou DIONGUE, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Benin, the representative of the Minister for Sport, the Director of CMMC Zone E and the representative of the WAPP Secretary General. The presence of the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System, the Resident Representatives of UEMOA and UNFPA, as well as Ambassador Francis OKE, former Permanent Representative of the ECOWAS to the African Union, enhanced the solemnity of the event. In keeping with the theme of the golden jubilee, 'Stronger together for a brighter future'. the march was punctuated by messages in favour of unity and solidarity, the essential foundations of successful regional integration. In his speech, the ECOWAS Resident Representative said: 'This march symbolises our shared commitment to an ECOWAS of peoples, united and in solidarity. In the face of current challenges, it is imperative that we unite our voices on the international stage to defend the interests of our region and accelerate the implementation of our integration policies, in order to create opportunities for our peoples'. The ceremony ended with words of thanks and encouragement from Ambassador Francis OKE, the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations System, the representative of the Minister for Sport and the Resident Representative of the ECOWAS. They all stressed that the support, solidarity and unity of the peoples are the foundation of West African political and economic integration. The morning ended in a convivial atmosphere, with refreshments and a family photo. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
Arab News
04-07-2025
- Business
- Arab News
PM Sharif discusses trade, investment and regional ties with ECO leaders on summit sidelines
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday held a series of meetings with the presidents of Türkiye, Iran, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan on the sidelines of the 17th Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) summit in Khankendi, Azerbaijan, reaffirming Pakistan's commitment to regional peace, connectivity and enhanced bilateral trade and investment. The two-day summit, held from July 3-4, focused on promoting economic cooperation, sustainable development and regional integration among ECO member states. Sharif led Pakistan's delegation, using the opportunity to deepen bilateral and multilateral ties with key regional partners. In his meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, the two leaders reviewed the full spectrum of bilateral relations and vowed to accelerate progress in critical areas. 'The two leaders reiterated their resolve to bring about meaningful progress in relations... [emphasizing] the importance of deepening cooperation in trade, defense, energy, connectivity and investment,' a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said. To advance this agenda, both sides agreed to exchange high-level delegations to finalize understandings reached between the sides. Sharif reaffirmed Pakistan's 'unwavering commitment' to working closely with Türkiye to promote peace, stability and sustainable development in the region. In another key engagement, the Pakistani prime minister met Iranian President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian, with both leaders reviewing the implementation of previous agreements to strengthen bilateral ties. Sharif praised Iran's leadership during the recent conflict with Israel and welcomed Tehran's decision to agree to a ceasefire. 'The Prime Minister reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering solidarity with the people and Government of Iran and Pakistan's strong commitment to continue working closely with Iran for peace in the region through dialogue and diplomacy,' said another PMO statement. In turn, President Pezeshkian thanked Pakistan for its diplomatic support during the crisis and acknowledged its role in efforts to de-escalate tensions. The prime minister also held talks with Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev, in what was their third bilateral meeting this year. The two leaders agreed to further strengthen their economic partnership, especially by accelerating Azerbaijan's investments in Pakistan. 'The two leaders agreed to enhance their cooperation in the fields of trade and investment while expressing satisfaction over the progress made regarding the investment prospects,' the PMO said. Sharif invited President Aliyev to visit Pakistan, noting that recent exchanges had significantly strengthened bilateral ties. The Azerbaijan leader had previously announced a $2 billion investment package for Pakistan during a visit to Islamabad in 2024, and the two countries have also deepened defense cooperation, including Islamabad's sale of JF-17 fighter jets to Baku. In his meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Sharif focused on regional integration, energy cooperation and the Trans-Afghan Railway Project, which is seen as vital for unlocking trade corridors between Central and South Asia. 'The two leaders agreed on visits of their senior ministers to Tashkent and Islamabad to finalize necessary agreements,' the PMO said, adding that the two sides viewed their cultural and historical ties as a strong foundation for broader collaboration.
Zawya
27-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
President Of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Bank Congratulates Sierra's President Julius Maada Bio On His Election As Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Chairman, Assures ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID)'s Full Support For His Developmental Agenda
Dr. George Agyekum Donkor, President of the ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID), has extended heartfelt congratulations to President Julius Maada Bio on his recent election as Chairman of ECOWAS Authority. In a congratulatory letter, Dr. Donkor emphasized that the election reflects the sub-region's strong confidence in President Bio's leadership. He also commended the President's proven governance record and expressed optimism that his leadership will effectively tackle pressing regional issues such as economic growth, peace, and security throughout West Africa. The ECOWAS Bank for Investment and Development (EBID) stands as a premier financial institution dedicated to advancing economic progress across West Africa. Based in Lomé, Togo, EBID finances critical sectors including infrastructure, agriculture, energy, and small to medium enterprises (SMEs). The Bank is instrumental in promoting regional integration, strengthening the private sector, and reducing poverty within ECOWAS member countries. During the 67th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government in Abuja, Dr. Donkor also engaged in a productive discussion with President Bio. He reaffirmed EBID's commitment to supporting Sierra Leone's developmental priorities and lauded President Bio's leadership. Dr. Donkor pledged to explore potential areas of collaboration between EBID and Sierra Leone. President Bio's new role as ECOWAS Chairman highlights Sierra Leone's expanding influence in regional affairs and represents a pivotal achievement for the nation. His tenure is expected to focus on fostering sustainable economic development, empowering communities, and revitalizing cultural heritage across West Africa. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Sierra Leone.
Zawya
24-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Adesina spotlights African Development Bank's role in delivering Mattei Plan and Global Gateway investments across Africa to drive industrial growth
African Development Bank Group ( President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina has reaffirmed the Bank's central role in advancing Africa's connectivity, industrialization, and regional integration through strategic investments aligned with Italy's Mattei Plan and the European Union's Global Gateway initiative. Speaking at the joint Mattei Plan–Global Gateway Summit ( held in Rome on Friday 20 June, Adesina emphasized the progress made by the African Development Bank in turning strategic priorities into action—from infrastructure and energy to digital connectivity and value chains. He called for greater alignment between partners and accelerated delivery on the ground, noting that the Bank's investments are already helping reshape regional trade and economic resilience. He underscored for instance the Bank's catalytic role in the Lobito Corridor, with $1 billion committed over five years for value chain development and urban infrastructure. He also mentioned the development of the Tanzania–DRC–Burundi railway network, where the Bank is helping mobilize a $3.9 billion package alongside international partners. These efforts, he noted, reflect a coherent strategy to transform Africa's economic geography through inclusive, green growth Stretching from the Atlantic port of Lobito in Angola to the heart of the continent, the Lobito Corridor is a vital route for moving minerals, goods and people across Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo—unlocking huge trade and industrial opportunities for landlocked countries. These developments were highlighted as international partners gathered to align efforts around new cooperation frameworks—the European Union's Global Gateway ( and Italy's recent Mattei Plan ( aim to deepen investment with Africa in energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and digital innovation. Adesina reaffirmed the Bank's role as a key implementing partner for both initiatives. The Mattei Plan, launched by Italy in 2024, is designed to foster equal partnerships with African countries, with a focus on strategic sectors including energy, agriculture, and migration. The Global Gateway, the EU's €300 billion investment strategy, similarly targets infrastructure development worldwide, with €150 billion earmarked for Africa. A cornerstone of this implementation is the operationalization of the Rome Process/Mattei Plan Financing Facility, which is a dedicated mechanism hosted by the Bank to accelerate climate-resilient infrastructure projects. The Facility's inaugural Governing Council has already met and approved an initial pipeline of operations across energy, water, and transport sectors. 'We have established a Special Fund, and its inaugural Governing Council has already met to begin evaluating projects, including the Lobito Corridor ( Adesina said. Underscoring the Bank's leadership, he noted that Africa's premier development finance institution has invested more than $55 billion in infrastructure over the past decade, making it the largest financier of regional transport corridors in Africa. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen reaffirmed the EU's long-term commitment: 'Global Gateway is an investment agenda that combines public and private capital... Africa is a continent of abundance—what's missing is connectivity.' Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni added: 'These are not top-down initiatives, but concrete projects shaped through dialogue and a shared desire for lasting development. The approach Italy has implemented is clear: respect, responsibility, vision.' A key pillar of this transformation, Adesina noted, is energy access. He highlighted Mission 300, the joint African Development Bank—World Bank initiative to connect 300 million Africans to electricity and announced ongoing negotiations for a €165 million package with the European Commission to scale up renewable energy under the program. Adesina urged donors to support a robust 17th replenishment of the Bank Group's soft loan arm for low-income countries -- the African Development Fund – scheduled for this year, to sustain the momentum of the Mattei Plan and Global Gateway. He concluded: 'Together, let us do more with Africa.' In a related development, the African Development Bank has signed a Letter of Intent with the Government of Zambia to advance the development of the Lobito Corridor, a transformative regional transport initiative connecting Southern and Central Africa. The project entails the construction of approximately 550 km of railway from Chingola in Zambia's Copperbelt to the Angolan border, as well as the upgrading of 260 km of road between Chisese and Jimbe via Mwinilunga. The initiative builds on a broader Memorandum of Understanding between the Bank, Zambia, Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and international partners including the United States, the European Commission, Italy, and the Africa Finance Corporation. It aims to strengthen regional trade, improve transport infrastructure, and drive economic integration across the region. Distributed by APO Group on behalf of African Development Bank Group (AfDB). About the African Development Bank Group: The African Development Bank Group (AfDB) is Africa's premier development finance institution. It comprises three distinct entities: the African Development Bank (AfDB), the African Development Fund (ADF) and the Nigeria Trust Fund (NTF). On the ground in 44 African countries with an external office in Japan, the AfDB contributes to the economic development and the social progress of its 54 regional member states.
