    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2003, Book II)]
    [July 12, 2003]
    [Page 869]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement Welcoming the New Leadership of the African Union
    July 12, 2003

        I congratulate President Joaquim Alberto Chissano of Mozambique on his appointment as the new President
    of the African Union. I also extend congratulations to President
    Konare of Mali on his appointment as the
    new Chair of the Commission of the African Union. I am confident that
    the African Union--and the people of Africa--will be well-served by the
    experience and vision these two leaders bring to these important posts.
        Africa is a place of both great potential and daunting challenges.
    The United States shares the hopes of peoples across the African
    Continent for a future of greater peace, greater freedom, and greater
    development. And America will work in partnership with all African
    nations committed to these great goals.
        The African Union has the mandate and the responsibility to respond
    effectively to Africa's challenges, including instability, terrorist
    threats, challenges to the effective rule of law, HIV/AIDS, poverty, and
    humanitarian emergencies. I look forward to the African Union continuing
    to play a vital role in shaping Africa's future under its dynamic new
    leadership.