Accra: The High-Level Consultative Conference on Regional Cooperation and Security concluded with a meeting at the level of Heads of State and Government, emphasizing the importance of collective action against regional security threats.
According to African Press Organization, the President of Ghana underscored the need for dialogue and solidarity among regional leaders to address common threats. He highlighted the importance of renewing collective resolve to tackle insecurity, particularly referencing the situation at Diori Hamani International Airport. The President called for restoration of confidence in public institutions and emphasized that isolated efforts would not resolve the existential threats facing the region.
The President of Liberia, Joseph Boakai, pointed to recent attacks in Niger as a reminder of the urgent need for the conference. He advocated for the prevention of conflicts at all levels and called for strengthened regional cooperation. He emphasized the need for investment in security architecture in light of technological advances.
Sierra Leone's President, Julius Maada Bio, highlighted the coordination and brutality of terrorism and extremism in the region. He called for a shift from fragmented responses to a regional approach that includes military action, good governance, and economic opportunities.
The Federal Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and representatives from Mauritania and Togo supported collective approaches to regional insecurity. Dr. Mamadou Tangara and Ambassador Bankole Adeoye stressed adherence to African Peace and Security Architecture and the need for regional strategies.
Dr. Ibn Chambas reiterated the threat of terrorism and called for a regional approach. The conference concluded with a communique by Ghana's Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, outlining steps for future cooperation, including regular meetings and mechanisms to combat insecurity. The summit ended with a commitment to regional solidarity and collective security.