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George Bush congratulates Kikwete, Ping
2008-02-07 09:24:10
By Guardian Reporter
US President George Bush has congratulated President Jakaya Kikwete on his appointment as the new chairman of the African Union.
In a statement issued yesterday by the US Embassy in Dar es Salaam, President Bush also congratulated Gabon Foreign Minister Jean Ping on his appointment as the chairman of the Commission of African Union.
``I am confident that the African Union - and the people of Africa - will be well-served by the leadership and vision President Kikwete and Minister Ping will bring to these important posts,`` Bush said in the statement.
He said Africa has experienced important progress in recent years. ``Economic growth is at historic highs, democracy is taking root in many countries and efforts to combat HIV/Aids, malaria and other infectious diseases are showing results,`` Bush added.
He said difficult challenges remain, including ending genocide in Darfur and restoring peace and stability to Kenya.
President Bush said the US looked forward to working closely with President Kikwete, Minister Ping, and the AU to address these challenges and to build on recent achievements to secure a better future for all Africans.
``Laura and I look forward to beginning our visit to Africa next week,`` he said in the statement.
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