Russ Feingold: “the African Union is essential to the political and economic development of Africa's diverse community of States. It has…”

“the African Union is essential to the political and economic development of Africa's diverse community of States. It has become clear that the AU represents a real commitment by its members to establishing a forum for political dialogue and to address the challenges and seize opportunities that are arising throughout the continent. The AU plays three very specific roles that I will highlight as we consider the nomination of the United States' first ambassador and as we renew our efforts to strengthen our relationship with the AU. The AU is primed to serve as the primary forum for establishing peace and preventing conflict throughout the continent. I applaud the efforts of the leaders of the AU to establish a true capacity to prevent and end conflict that has devastated many parts of the continent for too long. The creation of the Peace and Security Council, PSC, within the AU is particularly valuable, and I hope this organ within the AU develops sufficient capacity to deal with the full range of conflict throughout the continent. It is essential that the PSC complete its work in developing a series of early warning systems and indicators so that it can be effective in preventing conflict. It also must develop a real capacity to respond to conflict should one occur.…”