Platform for an Integrated Africa Policy

(16.12.08) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has published its Platform for an Integrated Africa Policy. Despite unresolved conflicts, such as in DR Congo, Darfur and Zimbabwe, along with uncertainty due to the international financial crisis, it should be noted that there have never before been so few wars in Africa or so many peaceful changes of government, and the continent has never before experienced such sustained high levels of economic growth.

Norway’s relations with Africa have traditionally been linked to development assistance and missionary work, but our cooperation is continually being extended into other areas. Norwegian business investments in Africa now far exceed development assistance to the continent. Norway also wishes to develop its foreign policy dialogue with African countries on issues such as climate change, conflict resolution, human rights and health.

Norway will seek to support African countries in strengthening their revenue bases through the development of sound and transparent administrative procedures, effective taxation systems and the reduction of illicit financial flows. This will help ensuring that Africa’s rich natural resources benefit the whole population and contribute to lasting development and poverty reduction.

The Platform for an Integrated Africa Policy gives an overview of Norwegian cooperation with Africa, and provides a basis for implementing concrete measures.

The Platform for an Integrated Africa Policy (pdf) can be accessed here.