The African Union (AU) and the United Nations (UN) on Thursday reaffirmed their enduring strategic partnership, calling it a cornerstone for global peace, security, and sustainable development. The commitment was made during the Ninth AU-UN Annual Conference, co-chaired by AU Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and UN Secretary-General António Guterres at the UN Headquarters in New York.

The leaders voiced deep concern over ongoing armed conflicts and humanitarian crises, underscoring the necessity of political solutions driven by dialogue, mediation, and preventive diplomacy. They reviewed joint efforts across peace, security, development, and human rights, reiterating their commitment to supporting African-led peace processes in critical zones like Sudan, Somalia, the Sahel, and the Great Lakes Region.

A key point of discussion was the urgent need for predictable and sustainable financing for AU-led peace support operations, specifically referencing UN Security Council Resolution 2719 (2023). Furthermore, the organizations pledged enhanced collaboration on the digital transformation agenda, climate action, and inclusive development, leveraging initiatives such as the G20 AI for Africa Initiative.

Both leaders emphasized the centrality of women and youth in advancing peace and growth. The African Union and the United Nations agreed to convene the Tenth Annual Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, in 2026 to continue strengthening their strategic cooperation.