Brussels 22 February 2016/ ACP: The Secretaries-General of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie and the African, Caribbean Pacific Group of States met on the margins of a joint event held recently in Brussels on the subject of South-South and Triangular Cooperation, where they discussed common approaches with a view to collaborate on programmes in the areas of youth and women.

OIF Secretary General H.E. Michaelle Jean underlined the urgency to create opportunities for youth and women in ACP countries – a significant part of which are French-speaking countries. In this regard, the cooperation of like-minded organisations working towards this goal is key.

Mme. Jean and the ACP Secretary General H.E Dr. Patrick Gomes discussed an agreement in principle, given the shared goals of the ACP and OIF in supporting women and youth, that the two organisations move forward together to seek other partners, including the private sector, to advance projects, incubators and initiatives, while making sure that these “come from the bottom up”.

“We do not have a choice but to work as partners, who can do more when they work together. We can no longer each remain in one’s own corner, in one’s own little territory,” said Mme. Jean. (Watch video)

The ACP, OIF and the United Nations Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO) organised a symposium on 11-12 February, which focused on operational aspects of South-South and Triangular Cooperation, and concrete actions that can be scaled up and enhanced for the benefit of marginalised populations.

“Women and young people represent a large percentage of the populations in ACP countries, and a majority live in rural settings where agriculture is an important potential source of activities and jobs. By supporting women and young people, we are therefore contributing to stimulating economic growth that will benefit families and communities while overcoming poverty,” stated ACP Secretary General H.E. Dr. Patrick Gomes.

An action plan generated from the symposium will be finalised in coming weeks.

(Photo: Secretary General of the OIF H.E. Mme. Michaelle Jean and Secretary General of the ACP Group H.E Dr. Patrick Gomes)

– Press ACP