Addis Abeba — A newly accredited Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium to the African Union, Gunter Sleeuwagen presented in audience his letters of credence to the Chairperson of the African Union Commission (AU), Prof. Alpha Oumar Konaré, last Friday.

During the ceremony at the head quarters of the AU, the Chairperson of the Commission expressed satisfaction for contribution of the Belgian government in reinforcing the bilateral cooperation and partnership existing between Africa and the European Union, the AU said in a statement.

Professor Konare further commended the Belgian government in their efforts for the elaboration of a peaceful resolution strategy with regards to the crises in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). These, he said are the basic elements that would help strengthen the relationship between the African Union and the Belgian government while taking into account the interest of their respective populations.

Ambassador Gunter Sleeuwagen on his part pointed out the remarkable image of the African Union on the international arena under the chairmanship of Professor Alpha Oumar Konare. He however emphasized on his country's commitment to reinforce the cooperation ties with the African Union in particular and Africa in general, the commission added in the statement.