African leaders in landmark decision to strengthen continental integration

by Xinhua writers Zhu Lei, Li Weijie SIRTE, Libya, July 4 (Xinhua) -- At the just-ended 13th summit of the African Union (AU) in Libya's port city of Sirte, African leaders resolved to transform the AU Commission, the executive arm of the pan-African body, into the AU Authority with a broader mandate. The creation of the AU Authority, comprising a chair, a vice-chair and 10 secretaries with specific portfolios, will expand the new institution's powers over defense, diplomatic and international trade matters. African observers hailed the landmark decision to strengthen Africa's unity and continental integration, but they also believe the transformation process needs long time and more tangible actions. GADDAFI LEADS TRANSFORMATION The idea of establishing a unity government in Africa has been discussed for years among the... [read full story]                    

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