A joint statement released by the Government of the United States of America and the African Union Commission announced the establishment of a Strategic Infrastructure and Investment Working Group (SIWG). This agreement was formalized during a meeting in Addis Ababa between Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau and African Union Commission (AUC) Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. The discussion reaffirmed the profound importance of the U.S.-Africa relationship, channeled through the African Union.

During their meeting, both parties underscored a shared commitment to fostering peace and security across the African Continent. They concurred that robust economic growth forms the essential foundation for a peaceful and prosperous Africa. Furthermore, they identified the development of high-quality, trade-enabling infrastructure as a critical next step to propel this growth forward. This strategic direction is informed by the African Union's comprehensive Agenda 2063 and its flagship priorities, including the vital Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA) priority corridors, and the ambitious African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

In light of these shared objectives, the Government of the United States and the AUC have formally agreed to establish the U.S.-AUC Strategic Infrastructure and Investment Working Group (SIWG). This collaborative body is designed to proactively promote and advance U.S.-Africa economic partnerships. The ultimate goal of these partnerships is to generate jobs, foster prosperity, and enhance economic security both within the United States and across the African continent.

The SIWG will operate as a crucial platform, bringing together senior officials and technical experts from across the U.S. government and the AUC. Its primary function will be to identify and advance tangible opportunities for U.S. private sector investment and engagement. These investments will specifically target AU-backed infrastructure projects and related initiatives that align with the shared strategic priorities of the United States, the AU, its member states, and Africa's Regional Economic Communities. Key areas of focus include enabling trade and logistics infrastructure, driving continent-wide digital transformation, developing critical minerals and commodities supply chains, establishing efficient transportation corridors, building resilient energy networks, facilitating regulatory harmonization, increasing two-way trade, securing digital infrastructure, and improving health security.

This innovative approach seeks to leverage the African Union's powerful convening authority and extensive expertise, synergizing it with U.S. capital and cutting-edge innovative financing tools. The aim is to make Americans and Africans safer and more prosperous by fostering durable, profitable investments that drive economic goals. The SIWG represents a significant shift from traditional foreign assistance, laying a robust foundation for strategic economic cooperation that is poised to grow and shape the U.S.-Africa relationship for many years into the future.