Statement at the Opening of the Standing Commission for Afro-Arab Cooperation

"Despite the many positive changes that have taken place in our societies and the common challenges that have confronted us, unfortunately, during the past decade we have not maximized the potential benefits of Afro-Arab cooperation. The affinities among our people, the historical and cultural bonds of association, and the advantages of contiguity have not been harnessed sufficiently." - Dr. Salim, April 18, 2001