G77 Summit: Africa adds its voice to the fight for equality

 HAVANA, Cuba, Sep 15 (ACN) Abdoulkader Kamil Mohamed, Prime Minister of Djibouti, was among the African leaders who added their voice to the struggle for equality at the Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Group of 77 (G77) and China, to be held in Havana through Saturday.

Mohamed pointed out that there is currently a multidimensional crisis of major proportions and devastating consequences, so that inequalities between the countries of the North and South are widening, a situation that wastes years of effort to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
During his speech, he said that a positive response is needed from the North regarding the legitimate objectives and aspirations of the developing world, which we will not achieve without support and solidarity, he said.

He added that other problems associated with armed conflicts and food insecurity, plus the negative effects of climate change, paint a complex picture that can only be changed with a great deal of will and hard work.

In the face of these challenges, science, technology and innovation are essential tools for accelerating the pace, diversification and economic transformation in the countries of the South, he said.

Like most of those who spoke at the Havana Convention Center, he also advocated for the necessary international cooperation to help the less favored in search of the well-being of the peoples.

He referred to the importance of defending the interests of G77 members and China, and seeking strategic partnerships with governments, public and private enterprises, and civil society.

Geraldo Joao Martins, Prime Minister of the Republic of Guinea Bissau, stressed that Cuba is an example of the brotherhood that should be multiplied among countries, in a world where a little more could be shared for the benefit of all, for example in Health and Trade.

In terms of equality and social justice, much remains to be done to strengthen unity, an essential element in the search for a better future that we deserve, he pointed out.

Kashim Shettima, Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, called for the exchange of ideas and collaboration in the search for practical solutions.

He said that the progress made in his country in areas such as telecommunications shows what can be achieved with governmental commitment, although knowledge and personal preparation should be more widespread for the common good.

This year, Cuba assumed the pro tempore presidency of the largest and most diverse group in the multilateral sphere, with 134 member states representing two thirds of the membership of the United Nations and 80 percent of the world's population.