    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2008, Book I)]
    [February 5, 2008]
    [Page 147]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Appointment of President Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete of Tanzania as President of the African Union
    and Foreign Minister Jean Ping of Gabon as Chair
    of the Commission of the African Union
    February 5, 2008

        I congratulate President Jakaya Kikwete of Tanzania on his
    appointment as the new President of the African Union, as well as
    Foreign Minister Jean Ping of Gabon 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 leadership and
    vision President Kikwete and Minister Ping will bring to these important
    posts.
        The African Continent 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. Difficult challenges remain,
    including ending genocide in Darfur, restoring peace and stability to
    Kenya, and bringing freedom to the Zimbabwean people. The United States
    looks forward to working closely with President Kikwete, Minister Ping,
    and the African Union 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.