Excellency,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am delighted to meet you and your colleagues today on my first visit to your beautiful country. I strongly believe that the development of Africa is a key priority to the benefit of the international community. Maritime security and combating terrorism efficiently are key elements in this respect.
The EU has been an active supporter of peace, security and stability in Mozambique. And, I have to say, we are honoured to have today with us the Head of the EU Delegation to Mozambique.
As you may know, a Greek Special Warfare Command, which forms part of the Mission, is training the Mozambique Special Forces in counter-terrorism. This deployment was in response to a request from the Government of Mozambique for practical assistance, following the insurgency in Cabo Delgado. This insurgency has resulted in almost 1 million internally displaced persons, many deaths and the destruction of infrastructure and more. It is also seriously impeding major business development, directly affecting the local communities, and especially, youth. Young people must have opportunities, employment and a chance to live a peaceful and fruitful life.
With that in mind, my country, Greece, is making a humble contribution of 40.000 euros to the ongoing programs of the State Secretariat for Youth and Employment for its activities in Cabo Delgado. The fund will contribute to vocational training and capacity building focusing on youth.
With this small gesture, we hope that greater things can happen and come to improve the lives of local communities and the economy of the country in the long term.
Thank you so much.