US Vice President travels to Africa to build ties with the continent
On Saturday, March 25, U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris embarks on her first trip to Africa since taking office to strengthen ties with the continent.
This was reported by RBC-Ukraine with reference to The Washington Post.
Reportedly, the impetus for engagement with the continent came amid Russia's war against Ukraine and the escalation of the confrontation between the United States and China, which is destabilizing global diplomacy. Both sides are seeking to win the favor of non-aligned countries in regions such as Africa.
According to White House officials, Harris' week-long trip includes stops in Ghana, Tanzania and Zambia. These countries have been chosen because they are striving to preserve democracy in the face of economic pressure gripping the continent.
The vice president previously met with the leaders of all three countries during the U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit in December, and she sees the nine-day trip as a continuation of those dialogues.
"The message is the same as when we met with African leaders in December. And that is that Africa matters, the continent matters, and our relationships on the continent matter," said White House spokesman John Kirby.
It is noted that this trip is of particular importance to Harris. She is the first black woman to hold a popularly elected office in the United States and is of Indian and Jamaican descent. During her trip, the vice president will focus on the human ties between Africa and its diaspora.
Author - Serhii Kolomiets, 26/03/2023
