The United Nations (UN) is committed to supporting Africa's efforts to build peace and prosperity on the continent, UN Deputy Secretary-General Asha Rose Migiro said here on Monday.
Migiro made the remarks at the opening session of the 11th African Union (AU) Summit which kicked off at the Egyptian Red Sea resort of Sharm el-Sheikh on Monday morning.
The AU and the UN are natural partners to reach peace and security as well as promote human right and development on this continent, said Migiro, adding "we should strengthen our ties now more than ever."
Under the theme "Meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) on Water and Sanitation," the two-day AU Summit attracts heads of state and government or representatives of 53 AU members.
"We must act together and act quickly" in order to tackle global issues and meet the MDGs, said the UN deputy chief.
Migiro urged the international community, especially the world's most industrialized countries, to support Africa's efforts on security and development.
"Support for Africa's development is critical for global security," said Migiro, adding "we can not separate security from development."
"We need the involvement of all countries and actors, developing and developed countries, business and non-governmental organizations," she added.
During the two-day summit, African leaders will discuss the issues of water and sanitation, soaring food prices and Zimbabwe's political situation.
The summit is also expected to discuss a number of issues proposed by member states, including the status quo of African peace and security, Africa's political and economic integration, cooperation between the UN and the AU and the Afro-Arab cooperation among others.
Source: Xinhua
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