Mandela and Blair discuss Africa poverty
Nelson Mandela met Tony Blair on Friday to discuss the Prime Minister’s 2005 presidency of the G8, the elite group of industrialised democracies, and what should be done to aid the plight of Africans.
The former South African president held breakfast talks at Number 10, where the pair discussed Mr Blair’s Commission for Africa Initiative, the body set up in February to review the problems on the continent such as economic issues, education, conflict resolution, health, the environment, HIV/AIDS and governance.
The commission includes Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi as well as band aid organiser, Sir Bob Geldof.
The Commission’s online consultation closes on December 3rd.
The Commission’s report, it is envisaged, will inform world leaders of the problems and solutions in Africa.
86-year old Mr Mandela – who symbolised the fight against apartheid in South Africa – still campaigns on a variety of global issues including Aids. He also played a key role in mediating between Britain and Libyan leader Colonel Gadaffi over the Lockerbie atrocity.
Mr Blair has pledged to fight absolute poverty in Africa and the threat of climate change during the G8 and European Union presidencies in 2005.
He has described Africa as “the scar on the conscience of the world”.
The premier has said he wants to turn attention on Africa into international action to support Africa, with 2005 a “year of decision for Africa and for us”.
