Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is more than just a continental agreement; it’s a “blueprint” for Africa’s development and a powerful political platform for Africans to forge a common position, according to Antonio Pedro, Deputy Executive Secretary of the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA). He made the statement at the 57th session of the ECA Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning, and Economic Development.

Pedro called for the full implementation of the AfCFTA agreement, suggesting it could be “a game changer.” He also urged the implementation of all other protocols key to the AfCFTA, adopted 13 years ago in Addis Ababa.

Ethiopia’s State Minister of Finance Semereta Sewasew, speaking at the conference, called for accelerated efforts to address Africa’s pressing development challenges, stressing the need for improved infrastructure, human capital investment, and regional integration.

Semereta cautioned that financial constraints impede Africa’s potential, especially in infrastructure, and emphasized the crucial role of education and health. She also noted that conflict, extremism, and trade barriers hinder African integration. Amidst global transitions and declining development assistance, Semereta urged African nations to enhance self-reliance and innovation.

The conference is scheduled to continue until March 18.

Source: sputniknews.africa