DAR ES SALAAM, April 3 (Xinhua) -- Tanzanian Minister of Finance Khamis Mussa Omar on Friday urged African countries to adopt a unified and forward-looking approach to strengthen economic resilience and reduce dependency in the face of ongoing global conflicts.
Omar made the remarks when he addressed the 58th Conference of African Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development in Tangier, Morocco, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance.
The minister called for coordinated short-, medium-, and long-term strategies that are both inclusive and sustainable.
His remarks came after a report by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa highlighting the economic and social impacts of the ongoing Middle East conflict on African economies.
Omar said that countries heavily dependent on tourism are particularly vulnerable, noting that Tanzania is closely monitoring the situation through its ministries to safeguard economic stability and public welfare.
He said disruptions in global trade have intensified, given the Middle East's strategic role as a key trade corridor linking Africa to international markets, underscoring the need for alternative trade routes and stronger intra-African commerce.
The minister said that Africa has sufficient natural resources, including oil and fertilizer, to support self-reliance if effectively utilized under frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area.
He also called for continued dialogue on reforming the global financial architecture to ensure Africa speaks with one voice in accessing affordable development financing, stressing that unity among African nations remains critical to achieving sustainable growth. ■