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Assilah Forum, Morocco.
Dr. Surakiart was the only Asian invited by the Moroccan
Foreign Minister to participate in the 2005 Assilah Forum
held on 6-7 August 2005. There were over 30 participants
comprising Foreign Ministers, UN representatives, and
members of the civil society from Europe and Africa attending
the 2-day discussion on Europe's relations with Africa
and the future of the continent. Participants were impressed
by Dr. Surakiart's understanding of Africa's concerns
and priorities. In his interventions, he stressed the
importance of Asia-Africa partnership, with emphasis on
exchanging experiences and best practices, cooperation
in poverty eradication, and enhancing trade ties. He elaborated
on Asia's experience in developing the rural economies
through creating jobs and income. He called for multi-faceted
partnership between Africa and Europe, and underscored
the need to enhance the role of the UN and the BWIs
in helping Africa to meet the UN MDGs. He also shared
perspectives for approaching peace and stability
in Africa. Dr. Surakiart held numerous bilateral meetings
with fellow African and European Ministers. He shared
his ideas on Africa's development strategy and areas in
which Asia and Europe can forge partnership for Africa.
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