The 2nd semi-annual meeting of experts was held virtually, 11-13 February 2023, to follow up implementation of the gradual operationalization of NARC components, with the participation of delegations of all Member States, NARC Executive Secretariat and the Planning Element.
NARC PLANELM Chief opened the meeting with a statement in which he welcomed the participating delegations, stressing the importance of the meeting, which will discuss various topics, in order to come up with a unified vision for the next phase.
He pointed out that NARC being part of the continental peace and security architecture is required to continue efforts, build and activate its components to contribute effectively to the African framework. He stressed the importance of carrying out a field training exercise (FTX), especially since full operational capability, depends on the implementation of this type of exercise according to the standards of the African Union.
The experts discussed a number of important topics, including the gradual operationalization conducive to NARC full operationalization, as well as the issue of the upcoming NARC meetings to be held during the first half of this year in Algeria.
The meeting was concluded with a final report comprising several recommendations that emphasized the need to move forward to advance the various permanent and standby components, reflecting the keen interest of all Member States and the Executive Secretariat to advance NARC’s work.
It is to be noted that this meeting was held in accordance with the decisions of the 8th meeting of the defense ministers of the region (the Council), which approved the holding of regular expert meetings, every six months to follow up implementation of gradual operationalization of NARC, and overcoming difficulties and challenges.