[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 5 (Monday, February 11, 2008)]
[Page 151]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

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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.