King Congratulates New AU Commission Chief Mahmoud Ali Youssouf

Doha – Morocco’s King Mohammed VI congratulated Mahmoud Ali Youssouf on his election as President of the African Union Commission, following the vote at the 38th AU Ordinary Summit in Addis Ababa where he secured 33 votes to succeed Tchadien Moussa Faki Mahamat.

In his congratulatory message, King Mohammed VI expressed confidence in Youssouf’s leadership capabilities. “We are totally convinced that the Commission of the African Union will find in you an experienced leader, concerned and committed to defending development, peace and security issues in our African continent,” the King stated.

The 59-year-old Djiboutian diplomat, who has served as his country’s foreign minister since 2005, defeated veteran Kenyan opposition leader Raila Odinga in a secret ballot requiring a two-thirds majority of voting member states.

The Sovereign noted that Youssouf’s election reflects recognition of his competence as a statesman from Djibouti, citing his proven diplomatic experience, professionalism, and noble human qualities.

King Mohammed VI pledged Morocco’s “absolute support” for initiatives aimed at serving development and security issues, promoting active solidarity, and constructive cooperation between African countries.

During his campaign visit to Rabat in December 2024, Youssouf met with Moroccan Foreign Minister Nasser Bourita, where he delivered a written message from President Ismaïl Omar Guelleh to King Mohammed VI and outlined his priorities for the AU Commission.

“If I am elected President of the African Union Commission, my priority will be financial management and governance. My goal will also be to mobilize internal funds,” Youssouf mentioned during the talks.

Bourita affirmed Morocco’s support, noting that “Djibouti has always been a source of trust and credibility, able to play a leading role in promoting stability and security in the region.”

Youssouf acknowledged the strong bilateral relationship, describing it as “solid ties based on mutual respect and pan-Arab and Islamic brotherhood” between the two nations.

The diplomatic ties between Morocco and Djibouti have strengthened over recent years, with Djibouti opening a Consulate General in Dakhla on February 25, 2020, demonstrating its support for Morocco’s territorial integrity.

During his meeting with Bourita, Youssouf acknowledged Morocco’s significant annual contribution of $35 million to the AU budget.

As he assumes leadership of the continental organization, Youssouf faces immediate challenges, including recent military takeovers in West Africa and escalating violence in eastern Congo.

He addressed these concerns in December, stating that there is a “governance problem” in some African countries, particularly those affected by recent coups.