Statement by H.E. Mr. Salim Ahmed Salim at the 15th Ordinary Session of the OAU Labour Commission.
"Your commission is meeting at a time when the continent is still going through serious economic difficulties, notwithstanding the minimal growth levels recorded in the course of the last two years in many countries. The crisis now gripping our countries has undermined development with the resultant stagnation of economic activity, loss of investment and jobs. Today, millions of our youth are without jobs and, unless there are efforts at sustained economic recovery and growth, they will continue to live on the fringe of society. To spur recovery and growth and to create economic opportunities and employment will require a partnership between governments and labour. This cooperation will make it possible to harness the creativity and the industry of all segments of society in all aspects of economic activity, including the informal sector. A generalized economic recovery will expand the job market and facilitate greater labour mobility within our countries."