Mr. Rubens Ricupero, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, Honourable Ministers, Distinguished Delegates, Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, This Conference of African Ministers of Finance is taking place at a critical juncture. As we enter the new millennium, our peoples continue to grapple with enormous social, political and economic problems.
Poverty is widespread and on the increase.
We are faced with the burden of unsustainable debt. Africa's share of world trade and investment remains low and is on the decline. All these are a reflection of the continued marginalisation of our region in the global economy. These adversities should not constitute a source of despair, nor should they generate a sense of resignation. On the contrary, they should strengthen our resolve to redouble our efforts to meet the challenges confronting our Continent so that we can assume our rightful place in the community of nations.