The Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AUC) H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on 9 June 2026 held a series of strategic engagements at the AU Headquarters in Addis Ababa, reflecting ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional coordination, deepen diplomatic relations, and advance continental governance reforms.
The engagements form part of the Commission’s broader mandate to promote good governance, regional cooperation, and effective multilateral partnerships in line with the African Union’s long-term vision and Agenda 2063 objectives.
In one of the key meetings, the AUC Chairperson chaired a Coordination Committee Meeting bringing together Chief Executives of Regional Economic Communities (RECs), Regional Mechanisms, NEPAD, and AfCFTA structures. The discussions focused on strengthening policy alignment and improving coordination among continental institutions to enhance delivery on integration and development priorities.
In a separate diplomatic engagement, the Chairperson received H.E. Gedion Timothewos, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, where discussions centered on AU institutional reforms, with particular emphasis on sustainable and predictable financing mechanisms. Both sides reaffirmed the importance of securing financial autonomy to ensure a more effective and sovereign African Union capable of delivering on its mandate. (African Union)
The Chairperson also met with the Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General and Special Envoy, underscoring continued cooperation between the African Union and the United Nations in addressing peace, security, and development challenges across the continent. These engagements reflect the AU’s ongoing commitment to multilateral coordination in conflict prevention and resolution.
Further diplomatic outreach included a meeting with H.E. Al-Hussein Ould El-Naji, Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Mauritania, where discussions focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation and advancing shared continental priorities under the AU framework.
In addition, the Chairperson convened a Cabinet meeting to bid farewell to the outgoing Chief of Staff, marking an internal administrative transition aimed at ensuring continuity and efficiency within the Commission’s leadership structure.
Collectively, these engagements highlight the African Union Commission’s continued focus on institutional reform, diplomatic consolidation, and operational efficiency. They also reflect the Chairperson’s commitment to reinforcing partnerships with Member States, international partners, and AU structures in advancing peace, integration, and sustainable development across Africa.
