Algerian Radio
The President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), Mr. Fateh Boutbig, reaffirmed on Monday the commitment of this institution to be an "active partner" in the implementation of Africa's Agenda 2063, as a strategic framework embodying the aspirations of the continent's peoples for a prosperous, integrated, secure Africa capable of taking its rightful place in the concert of nations.
In an address delivered at the opening of the first ordinary session of the seventh legislature of the PAP, held at the parliament's headquarters in Midrand, South Africa, Mr. Boutbig specified that this session constitutes a "pivotal milestone in the journey of our continental institution," adding that the next phase will be guided by the keywords "reform, efficiency, partnership, and achievement."
The President of the PAP indicated that the vision of the seventh legislature is based on "four strategic pillars: strengthening the institutional performance of the Parliament, consolidating the principles of good governance, supporting the economic and legislative integration of the continent, and anchoring parliamentary diplomacy in the service of peace, justice, and development, alongside driving digital transformation and strengthening Africa's digital sovereignty."
Under this framework, Mr. Boutbig stressed that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is "not a simple economic agreement, but a civilizational and strategic project that embodies Africa's will to build its future through its own means," noting that the PAP will continue its support for its implementation through legislative approximation, the harmonization of national laws, and the monitoring of continental commitments.
On this occasion, he reiterated the PAP's solidarity with the Palestinian people and its support for their legitimate rights, particularly their right to establish their independent state, calling for an end to the suffering of civilians and for respect for United Nations resolutions and international legitimacy.
He also reaffirmed the PAP's commitment to finalizing the decolonization process, in accordance with the United Nations Charter, the Constitutive Act of the African Union (AU), and relevant resolutions.
Concluding his address, Mr. Boutbig recalled that the empowerment of women and youth represents "a fundamental pillar" for building the continent's future, emphasizing the need to "strengthen the presence of women in leadership and decision-making positions, ensure quality education, and guarantee employment and creative opportunities for youth, as partners of the present and architects of change."
During the proceedings of this first ordinary session of the seventh legislature, which run until July 30, participants will debate several agenda items, notably peace and security on the continent, the reports of standing committees, the report of the Caucus of Women Parliamentarians, as well as the AU theme for the year 2026: "Ensuring the Sustainable Availability of Water and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063." The session will close with the adoption of final resolutions.
