Africa Day 2023 – Message from Seychelles Mission in India
It is essential to acknowledge the extent of the bilateral cooperation between Africa and India, a partnership that has significantly grown over the years - H.E. Mrs. Harisoa Lalatiana Accouche,High Commissioner of the Republic of Seychelles to India.
On the 25th of May 2023, as we commemorate Africa Day, we celebrate the incredible diversity, unity, and profound heritage of our continent.
Africa Day serves as a potent reminder of the resilience and unyielding spirit of our people, a testament to our shared journey from the birth of the Organisation of African Unity, now known as the African Union, towards peace and prosperity.
This year’s theme, ‘Accelerating the Implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to Bring Greater Prosperity to the Continent’, underscores our commitment to driving a brighter future through economic integration. The AfCFTA, poised to become the world’s largest free trade area, promises to catalyse sustainable economic growth, diversify our economies, and generate much-needed employment opportunities.
As we progress with the implementation of the AfCFTA, let us reaffirm our collective commitment to ensuring that its benefits are felt in every corner of our continent. Our joint efforts across sectors, regions, and nations are crucial in this endeavour. We must ensure that no country is left behind and that the promise of prosperity extends to each and every citizen.
In this context, it is essential to acknowledge the extent of the bilateral cooperation between Africa and India, a partnership that has significantly grown over the years. Our collaborative initiatives with Indian institutions, such as the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), have proven to be mutually beneficial, fostering growth and development in numerous sectors. We deeply appreciate the commitment demonstrated by the CII in nurturing stronger ties, promoting innovation, and facilitating sustainable development across Africa. We have no doubt that the forthcoming CII Exim Bank – India Africa Conclave scheduled to be held on 14th-16th June 2023 where we shall ensure productive participation will be crowned with full of success for the benefits of all stakeholders.
This Africa Day 2023, let us continue to uphold our shared values of peace, justice, and democracy, with a focus always on the well-being of our people.
Our rich cultural diversity is a powerful tool that binds us together and fuels our determination to create a more prosperous and inclusive continent.
Let us renew our commitment this Africa Day to a collective future of hope, unity, and prosperity. Through the AfCFTA, we have an unparalleled opportunity to rewrite our economic narrative and forge a path to widespread prosperity. Together, we can create a future that echoes the limitless potential of Africa and its people.
Happy Africa Day to everyone!
Here’s to the progress we have made, the relationships we have nurtured, and the promising journey that lies ahead.
Long live Africa!
