Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Sara Almeida
Published on 2024-04-09 21:05:00
In a review of the International Conference “Freedom, Democracy and Good Governance: A Look from Cabo Verde,” the Prime Minister expressed satisfaction today with the positive impact of the event, which took place on April 8 and 9 on Sal, in promoting democratic values and Cabo Verde’s international reputation.
Ulisses Correia e Silva highlighted the quality of the participants, reviewing some of the most striking interventions, including those of the Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, and the video message sent by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who shared very strong messages about the importance of peace, freedom, and democracy in the world.
“This conference combined several aspects. It was not just about political leaders’ speeches. We had representatives from think tanks, non-governmental organizations, academics, young people, and a very diverse audience. This is indeed how debates about democracy should be conducted,” he emphasized.
One of the main objectives of the conference was to promote debate and protection of democracy at a time when it faces global challenges such as populism and extremism. By hosting the event, Cabo Verde reinforced its position as a defender of democratic values and as an active member of the international community committed to peace and development.
The final costs of the event are not yet known, with a maximum budget of 55 million escudos set for its organization, a value that has been contested by the opposition.
Refusing to engage in political controversies, the Prime Minister argued that the recognition of the success of this event and the country’s ability to present itself internationally shows a return on investment greater than “any investment Cabo Verde might make.”
Therefore, he assessed that these debates are necessary and also position Cabo Verde in the international arena with credibility.
“It is no coincidence that the Secretary-General of the United Nations participated. It is no coincidence that several other representative entities from around the world participated in this conference. It is because they see its usefulness,” he stressed.
Regarding complaints from the opposition that they were not invited to participate in the event, the Prime Minister denied the accusations, ensuring that all deputies and mayors were invited, with some even attending.
However, he observed that the conference did not aim to be “a replica of Parliament” or focus on national democracy.
“We did not center the debate on Cape Verdean democracy. We had a debate from Cape Verde, facing the world, with the participation of entities and representatives from various parts of the globe,” he said.
The international conference brought together participants from various continents to discuss essential issues for the paths and challenges of democracy and freedom. The Declaration of Sal resulted from these discussions, proclaiming a global commitment to these values essential to people’s lives.
The reading of the Declaration was delivered by the Minister of State, National Defense, Territorial Cohesion, and Minister of the Presidency of the Council of Ministers and Parliamentary Affairs, Janine Lélis, at the closing of the event, which involved more than 20 speakers and around 200 participants over two days.
Through 10 points, this joint Declaration addresses fundamental issues, reflecting the participants’ conviction about the importance of freedom, democracy, and good governance for countries’ development and the well-being of their citizens.
Themes range from a commitment to defending universal human rights to the need to strengthen democratic institutions, including advocating for a free press.
With this Declaration signed in Sal, it aligns with Cabo Verde’s desire to establish itself as a bridge for positive influence in the concert of nations.
Read the original article(Portuguese) on Expresso das Ilhas
