AU Commission Chair Consults Regional Blocs Ahead of Key Policy Meetings

Addis Ababa, February 6, 2026 (FMC) — The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, on Thursday evening held consultations with the Permanent Representatives of the African Union’s Regional Economic Communities, briefing them on the Commission’s strategic priorities ahead of the 48th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council and the 39th Assembly of Heads of State and Government, scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa from February 11 to 15, 2026.

The meeting, described by the representatives as an unprecedented and institutionalised dialogue, marked the fourth such engagement under the current leadership of the Commission.

The consultations are aimed at strengthening coordination between the African Union and the Regional Economic Communities in line with the principle of subsidiarity.

Discussions focused on sustainable financing for the Commission and the regional blocs, closer alignment of peace and security initiatives, mediation and preventive diplomacy efforts, as well as advancing regional integration across the continent.

Participants also exchanged views on navigating evolving global geopolitical dynamics and reinforcing Africa’s agency through locally driven and sustainable development financing mechanisms.