Luanda - Angola appealed Thursday, in Addis Ababa (Ethiopia), the sanctions sub-committee of the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) to act impartially, and in accordance with the principles of the continental organization.
According to the Angolan ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the AU and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA), Miguel Bembe, AU-PSC sanctions sub-committee must fulfill its mandate with zeal and dedication, acting impartially.
The diplomat, who spoke at the PSC meeting, dedicated to the presentation of the report of the inaugural session of the sanctions sub-committee, which took place on June 12, expressed concern about the fact that the document under analysis only mentioned the imposition of sanctions in the event of unconstitutional changes of government in Africa.
He recalled that violations of the norms and principles established by the African Union go beyond coups d'état or manipulation of current precepts.
Miguel Bembe said that the African reality involves different types of illegal conduct, such as promotion and financing of terrorism and extremism, genocide, money laundering, border violations, disrespect for human rights and international humanitarian law.
In this regard, he noted that Angola recommends reviewing the PSC sanctions sub-committee's purpose with the aim of making it more comprehensive and to clearly define the typology and scope of sanctions.
Angola recommends improving capacity of sub-committee members, implementing regular training programs, equip them with necessary skills and knowledge to deal with complex issues linked to sanctions", says a press release from the Angolan diplomatic representation in Ethiopia to which ANGOP had access on Thursday.
The mobilization of technical and financial resources to allow the sub-committee to carry out its functions effectively, exploring partnerships with international organizations and Member States, constitutes another of Angola's recommendations, expressed in the meeting, held in virtual format.
Angola proposed to the AU-PSC sanctions sub-committee the establishment of a strong working relationships with Regional Economic Communities and other bodies at the level of the United Nations and other international organizations, to exchange experiences and ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to sanctions. DC/CF/DOJ
