UN General Assembly
2001

innocents, systematically destroy property, disrupt the operations of Governments and displace population groups. The scanty positive results from the many plans and initiatives conceived and implemented to deal with the serious problems Africa has faced over the years have resulted in well known and widespread dissatisfaction, both in the international community and among African leaders. Yet, despite the rather discouraging international climate, Africa has taken important steps that may open the way to a more promising future. With a view to creating the instruments and mobilizing the will to face up to an increasingly complex global situation, African leaders proclaimed the African Union with a new vision for our continent. Moreover, they adopted the New Initiative for Africa, recently designated as the New Partnership for the Development of Africa, under which Africans assume full responsibility for eradicating poverty and putting their countries on the path of economic growth and development at the same time as they offer a partnership that is mutually beneficial to the international community in meeting the challenges of the new millennium.