Ambassador Salma Malika Haddadi, Deputy Chairperson of the African Union Commission, has called on the international community to support Africa's push for fair representation on the global stage.

Her message was delivered during the 80th United Nations General Assembly, which began on September 14, 2025, in New York. A high-level forum, part of the assembly, is being held under the theme "Well-being in Solidarity: 80 Years and Beyond for Peace, Development, and the Protection of Human Rights."

In a video message to the forum, Ambassador Haddadi spoke on the theme "Africa's Perspectives in the Evolving Global Political System." She highlighted that Africa's efforts toward self-reliance are yielding results, citing the continent's progress in financing its own security. She noted that the African Peace and Security Architecture is now being guided by African funding and ownership and that the African Union Peace Fund is being implemented with African-sourced support.

The ambassador also shared her views on the African Continental Free Trade Area. She stated that beyond connecting people and markets, it will restore the commercial ties and cooperation that existed before artificial borders were imposed on the continent.

She underscored Africa's growing role in global diplomacy, pointing to its permanent seat in the G20 as a prime example. This seat, she said, clearly indicates the continent's irreplaceable role in solving global problems.

Haddadi noted that the changing global system presents numerous opportunities for Africa, and that work is underway to seize this favorable moment. She called on international partners to support Africa's fair and genuine aspirations for an equitable global financial system and a seat on the United Nations Security Council.

Concluding her message, she explained that cooperation between Africa and the world must be based on mutual respect and benefit. She emphasized that when Africa prospers, global prosperity and stability are secured.