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Patrick Rajoelina at Walaw: "African Protectionism, a Necessity in the Face of Global Challenges"

Friday 29 November 2024 - 11:15
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From November 27 to 30, 2024, the city of Tangier is hosting the 16th edition of the MEDays Forum, a major international event dedicated to contemporary global issues. This year's theme, "Sovereignties and Resilience: Toward a New Global Balance," brings together over 250 high-level speakers, including heads of state, policymakers, international experts, and Nobel Prize laureates.

Among the key contributions to this edition, Patrick Rajoelina, former Minister of Foreign Affairs of Madagascar, provided deep insights into the challenges and opportunities for Africa in the context of global transformations.

In an exclusive statement to Walaw, he emphasized the relevance of the chosen theme and presented proposals for a strategic management of Africa’s resources.

Rajoelina highlighted the impact of international political developments, particularly in the United States, where protectionist policies have influenced global trade relations. "In the face of this growing protectionism, we, Africans, must also consider protectionism at the continental level," he stated.

He proposed a clear and ambitious vision: Africa must unite to control and add value to its natural and human resources. "Our products should be listed on African exchanges. It is inconceivable that our grains, for example, are listed on the Chicago Stock Exchange. Our institutions should set the prices of our raw materials," he declared.

The former minister also suggested the creation of a "general store," a unified African platform that would serve as a single interlocutor for importers from Northern countries. According to him, this structure would ensure better price negotiations and a fair distribution of the profits generated from the exploitation of Africa's resources.

"Once we have natural resources to export, it is essential to structure our offer strategically. This initiative would strengthen our position in global markets while supporting local development," he explained.

Patrick Rajoelina also emphasized the importance of South-South cooperation, a vision promoted by several African leaders, including His Majesty King Mohammed VI and the President of Madagascar. "This cooperation is essential to build a strong and sovereign continent capable of meeting the needs of its people," he reminded.

He praised Morocco’s efforts in this area, citing the Kingdom’s diplomatic and economic initiatives that make it a model of regional leadership. "Morocco shows the way forward for a united and resilient Africa," he concluded.


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