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Peace and stability crucial to economic growth in Central Africa, Annan says

Peace and stability crucial to economic growth in Central Africa, Annan says

The partnership between the United Nations and Africa rests on a vision that takes into account both the preoccupations and the aspirations of the people of the continent, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said in a message today to a summit meeting of Central African countries.

The partnership between the United Nations and Africa rests on a vision that takes into account both the preoccupations and the aspirations of the people of the continent, Secretary-General Kofi Annan said in a message today to a summit meeting of Central African countries.

His message to the Economic and Monetary Community of Central African States (CEMAC) in Libreville, Gabon, was delivered by his Representative to the Central African Republic, Gen. Lamine Cissé, and called on the countries of the region to use their vast wealth of natural resources in ways that promote economic diversity.

The Secretary-General also asked them to ensure an equitable distribution of this wealth within their countries, sound economic growth and sustainable development, as well as create an environment of peace and stability.

In these and other areas, the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) serves as the framework for effective cooperation between Africa and the international community, including the United Nations, the Secretary-General said.