FM urges supporting Africa's peace, security through 'Silencing the Guns' initiative

CAIRO - 4 July 2019: Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry has reiterated the importance of promoting peace and security in the African continent through “Silencing the Guns” initiative, which calls on all warring parties in various African countries to stop fighting and the bloodshed.

Addressing the opening session of the African Union's executive council currently held in Niamey under Egypt's chairmanship, Shoukry called for moving ahead with the march of development and construction, while avoiding what may cause instability and lack of peace and security which lead to the spread of terrorism, illegal immigration and human trafficking phenomena.

Shoukry urged boosting coordination and cooperation between the AU and the eight African economic blocs with a view to develop regional and continental integration.

The continent's countries will mark the launch of the African free trade area which he described as a leading continental project, Shoukry underlined.

Shoukry also highlighted the importance of upgrading the infrastructure in the transport and communications sectors