The summit of the 8 most industrialized nations, held this year in the French resort of Evian-les-Bains on 1 June, marks the beginning of a new era of international relations; an era in which advanced countries have committed themselves to the principle of multilateralism. Under this principle, dialogue is encouraged between rich and poor with the purpose of ensuring prosperity for all.


The summit was held under the logo "Development and International Co-Operation". Leaders of the advanced countries gathered at Evian have shown their willingness to support Africa; their policy having altered, no longer restricted to offering assistance or aid. Instead, they have adopted a strategy of partnership with Africa, namely NEPAD or the New Partnership for Africa’s Development.

NEPAD provides an action programme for peace, democracy and sustainable development. Once all three are achieved, the incentive is that the markets of the major industrialised countries will open up to African products, and ample funding will be made available for Africa’s infrastructure projects.

Addressing the summit, President Mubarak sought to impress the fact upon those gathered that a new era of international relations has been ushered in, which requires strong commitment by all parties towards a wide-range strategy seeking to serve the interests of all. He underlined that responsibility for goal-driven development-geared momentum lies with the advanced world. The G-8 is urged to fulfil its obligations as enshrined in NEPAD.

The Evian Declaration has indicated plans to counter famines and hunger in Africa by cutting off the continent’s enormous debt figure. New vistas for trade and investments are seen to be opening. The question of low-cost medicines needed for combating Africa’s endemic diseases, most prominently AIDS has been addressed. It is noteworthy that out of a world total of 40 million, 25 million AIDS-infected patients are found in Africa alone. By engaging in a partnership with Africa, the G-8 seeks to help the continent overcome its difficulties; indeed to save it from plunging deeper into oblivion.

We, in African Perspectives do recognize the significance of the event and hence have devoted this, the 14th issue of the Quarterly to exploring the horizons of African-international relations. The reader will find a range of studies dealing with globalization, la Francophonie, and French-American competition in Africa. Chinese-African relations are tackled as is Japan’s role in NEPAD.