President Akufo-Addo exchanging pleasantries with President Zelensky
President Nana Akufo-Addo says Africa has been the most affected by the conflict in Ukraine, impacting economies, living standards, and leaving several countries on the continent with high inflation.
According to him, the war in Ukraine, which has disrupted the supply chain, has had a terrible impact on food prices, with Africa becoming “an accidental victim of this conflict.”
Speaking at the Ukraine Peace Summit in Switzerland last Sunday, President Akufo-Addo said the consequences of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine “go far beyond the confines of Europe.”
“Indeed, in many ways, Africa has been the greatest victim,” he stressed, and added that this makes Africa an interested party in participating in efforts to find a solution to this conflict.
He emphasised that an end to the war must be founded on comprehensive, just, and long-lasting peace principles derived from international law and the United Nations (UN) Charter.
President Akufo-Addo, therefore, called on the international community to unite in upholding international law and the principles of the UN Charter in the quest to find lasting peace for Ukraine.
According to him, sustainable peace is built on open, honest, and inclusive dialogue.
President Akufo-Addo said a pivotal moment in the collective pursuit of peace and justice is by reaffirming the commitment to the rule of law, respect for national sovereignty, and protection of human rights by the international community.
The summit provided an opportunity to bridge divides and lay the groundwork for durable peace.
The President emphasised that the mission to seek a “comprehensive, just and lasting peace for Ukraine is rooted in the principles of international law and the UN Charter.”
He noted that the African continent had been severely affected by the Russian/Ukraine war, saying, “We are facing additional strains on vulnerable economies and struggling to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.”
He asserted that the blockade of the Black Sea had led to severe shortages and skyrocketing food prices, precipitating a food security crisis across Africa.
“This has resulted in a surge in the cost of living and a looming threat of hunger and malnutrition over the continent’s most vulnerable populations,” he stressed.
He indicated that the repercussions of the war extend far beyond Ukraine, threatening global stability and economic security.
“The Ukraine Peace Formula, which includes the cessation of hostilities, withdrawal of foreign troops, and restoration of Ukraine’s territorial integrity, stands as a critical framework for achieving lasting peace,” President Akufo-Addo said.
He also urged continued diplomatic, economic, and humanitarian support to facilitate a peaceful resolution.
Acknowledging the challenges on the path to peace, the President expressed optimism that with collective determination and steadfast dedication to justice, a future where peace prevails is achievable.
By Ernest Kofi Adu