African Union summit convenes in Ethiopia. The 16th Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union was held on Sunday and Monday, January 30 and 31, in Addis Ababa. While the two-day meeting focused on recent events in Tunisia and Egypt, where citizens have petitioned for a peaceful transition to new governments, discussions were also held on topics such as Cote d’Ivoire and the country’s yet-to-be- resolved elections. A five-member panel headed by Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz was appointed, with a mission to return with feasible solutions within one month. Also, following the recent referendum that has established the autonomy of South Sudan, Mr. Salva Kiir petitioned the assembly for recognition of the election results in favor of forming a new state. In addition, guest speaker French President Nicolas Sarkozy expressed his nation’s commitment to support Africa’s bid for a seat at the United Nations Security Council, also pledging assistance to Africa through innovative financing that would address the needs of the continent.

Our heartfelt appreciation, African leaders, for your comprehensive discussions that convey such concern for brethren across the continent. May the amicable and cooperative atmosphere of this meeting reach all the countries in need of assistance for the flourishing peace and well being of the beautiful African continent and her gentle-hearted people.

http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-world/african-leaders-agree-on-new-icoast-plan-20110201-1abhm.html
http://allafrica.com/stories/201101310769.html, http://www.voanews.com/english/news/africa/African-Union-Names-Heads-of-State-Panel-to-Deal-with-Ivory-Coast-Crisis-114926924.html