Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi said on Sunday that Africa is capable of playing a central role in restoring global stability and driving sustainable development, if given fair partnership and international support. In a recorded address opening the fifth edition of the Aswan Forum for Sustainable Peace and Development, Sisi said the continent had proven its ability to overcome crises and contribute to rebuilding confidence in the global order. He noted that the forum, launched in 2019 during Egypt's presidency of the African Union, has established itself as a key African platform for discussing peace, security, and development challenges, as well as Africa's place in global decision-making. Sisi said this year's forum comes at a "critical time," amid what he described as the international community's "failure to confront humanitarian crises," deepening global polarisation, and unfulfilled commitments to debt relief and climate finance — all of which, he said, have hit Africa hardest. Despite these pressures, Sisi said Africa remains at the forefront of rebuilding a fairer world order, citing progress in activating the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and advancing post-conflict reconstruction and development policies — a file Egypt leads within the African Union. The president said discussions at the forum will focus on peace and sustainable development, investment in infrastructure and strategic corridors, the role of the private sector, and women's participation in peace and security. He added that the meeting would produce the "Aswan Conclusions," a set of recommendations to guide African and international efforts throughout the coming year. "Africa has the resources, the people, and the vision to lead global recovery ...," Sisi said. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
