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Around Africa
Swaziland comesa Summit
Key to rapid African economic unity
All attention will turn to the beautiful, mountainous Kingdom of Swaziland, nestling at the heart of the Southern Africa region, when it assumes Chairmanship of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) in August 2010. Swaziland is hosting the 14th Heads of State and Government Summit and the 28th Policy Organs Meeting in Izulwini. The theme of the Summit, most appropriate for the modern era, is ‘Harnessing Science and Technology for Development’.
The Summit coincides with the Swaziland Trade Fair, which will provide an excellent showcase for the host as well as for member countries. Swaziland is in the unique position of hosting this powerful economic bloc for the second time. His Majesty King Mswati III hosted the Preferential Trade Area PTA (the precursor to COMESA) Summit in 1990 and became the longest-serving Chairperson of the Summit from 1990–1992 before its transformation. During this period, the King travelled to the European Union and the United States of America, and strongly promoted the organisation before it had secured any major developmental partner.
Swaziland’s chairmanship of COMESA will add another dimension to regional integration. COMESA’s Secretary-General, Sindiso Ngwenya, says, “Once Swaziland takes over the chairmanship, other countries that have relationships with the Kingdom of Swaziland may negotiate for a single Free Trade Area involving COMESA, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) ).” Given this factor, he says, “so there is no country better placed than Swaziland at this critical period to fast-track the unification of the African Economic Community.”
With its historic experience and its participation in various regional and international bodies, he says, Swaziland will bring its knowledge to bear for the benefit of all member states. The Summit convenes during the annual Swaziland International Trade Fair (SITF), where the 19 member countries will be provided with an excellent platform on which to exhibit their best products. Delegates will also participate in the COMESA Business Forum on 27-28 August. His Majesty King Mswati has invited participants to join the Swazi nation to celebrate the annual Reed Dance. This spectacular and unique cultural ceremony has gained global fame and attracts visitors from all parts of the world.
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