Washington DC, 19 January 2024 (TDI): US Secretary Blinken will embark on a four-nation tour of Africa next week, visiting Cabo Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Angola. This trip aims to reinforce the US-Africa partnership and discuss key areas of collaboration. The visit will take place from January 21-26.
In a video message, the US Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller said, “Secretary Blinken will depart on Sunday on his fourth trip to Africa as Secretary of State. The Secretary will highlight US long-standing engagement with African nations and institutions.”
Furthermore, he said, “The Secretary will deliver commitments made at the US-Africa Leaders Summit to benefit both US and Africa.”
Furthermore, the Spokesperson added, “We have challenges in Africa, but we also have a lot of opportunities that the President has deemed as a priority. Secretary Blinken has made sure to focus on other challenges during his trips.”
The US Agenda in Africa
The agenda of this four-nation tour lies in three core lines of effort, including accelerating US-Africa partnerships to advance global priorities. Moreover, deepening of mutually beneficial economic ties between Africa and the US and to elevate African leadership and promote democracy, human rights, and security.
The Secretary will discuss matters on climate change, food, and health security. The US is investing in infrastructure in Africa to boost two-way trade. Moreover, it will create jobs at home and on the continent to help Africa compete in the global market.
In addition, the Secretary will advance security partnerships based on shared values. Furthermore, the agenda will promote democracy, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.
Also Read: Secretary Blinken Begins three-Nation Visit to Africa
Reportedly, Secretary Blinken will reaffirm US commitment to coastal West African partners through a Strategy to Prevent Conflict and Promote Stability. The US partnership with the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to address regional challenges. This will help de-escalate tensions and adopt diplomatic solutions to conflict.
Remarks by US Assistant Secretary of African Affairs
US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs Molly Phee said to reports, “If China didn’t exist, we would be fully engaged in Africa.”
Furthermore, she added, “Africa is important for its own sake, and it is important for American interests as well.”
Reportedly, the Assistant Secretary reiterated that the US has been long concerned about coastal West Africa as well as Nigeria. The reason is that if the terrorist threat in the Sahel was to disrupt life in the aforementioned countries, then it would be problematic for America holistically.
Moreover, the Assistant Secretary said that the US is hoping that this Africa tour will result in a positive outcome. It will highlight the great capacity of the African people, particularly the youth. In addition, she added that the US hosted four hours of discussion with the Nigerian delegation led by the national security advisor at the US State Department yesterday.
The Assistant Secretary highlighted major US investments in Africa. This includes US infrastructure projects partnering with Angola and Cape Verde. She also mentioned that a lot of Negative news is coming out of Africa but Secretary Blinken’s trip would highlight the positivity.
In addition, the Assistant Secretary also said that the Africa Cup of Nations (soccer) tournament will be going on soon and Secretary Blinken is expected to attend a match in person while in the Ivory Coast.
Lastly, the outcomes of this Africa tour are anticipated to contribute to cooperation and shared prosperity. The US emphasizes the importance of a multifaceted approach that addresses governance, economic development, and community well-being to achieve long-lasting solutions in the US-Africa bilateral partnership.
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