The 15ème Conférence des Présidents d’Assemblées et de section de la région Afrique de l’Assemblée Parlementaire de la Francophonie hosted by the National Assembly, kicked off, this morning, at the Intercontinental Resort in Balaclava. Scheduled to unfold over two days, the event gathers parliamentary leaders from across the African region.
The Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Sooroojdev Phokeer, Délégué Général de l’Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, Member of the National Assembly of France, Mr Bruno Fuchs, Vice-President of the Parliamentary of the Francophonie, President of the National Assembly of Senegal, Mr Amadou Mame Diop, Members of the National Assembly, Members of Diplomatic Corps, and other personalities also attended the event.
In a statement, Mr Phokeer asserted Mauritius’ steadfast commitment to promoting the Francophonie, citing the nation’s pivotal role in hosting the 5th summit of the Francophonie in 1993 under the theme ‘Unity in diversity.’ He emphasised that this event symbolised the nation-building ethos of Mauritius, aligning closely with the mission and vision of the Francophonie.
Additionally, Mr Phokeer highlighted Government’s introduction of a Bill aimed at promoting the French language in both its written and spoken forms as part of its efforts to bolster the Francophonie and democratic ideals in Mauritius. He, moreover, underscored the role of the National Assembly as an important platform to drive regional debates and address critical situations.
Emphasising its profound significance, Mr Phokeer spoke of the rapid digitalisation unfolding across Africa. He stressed the crucial importance of thoroughly scrutinising the political dynamics within French-speaking countries, highlighting their pivotal role in Mauritius’ comprehensive engagement with the Francophonie.
For his part, Mr Fuchs underscored the importance of cooperation between France and Africa for the development of the Francophonie, underlining the Assembly’s role in finding solutions benefiting the population. He reiterated the Francophonie’s message of promoting the French language and multicultural exchanges. He also emphasised the necessity of active engagement and contribution to ensure the well-being and prosperity of the country, particularly focusing on aligning the aspirations of the youth with national objectives.
As for Mr Diop, he expressed gratitude for the privilege of attending the conference in Mauritius, highlighting the warm hospitality he received. He, thus, pointed out the conference’s role as a platform for exchanging proposals aimed at addressing social and political evolution.
