Jeju, Republic of Korea, 28 May 2025 – H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, delivered remarks at the Jeju Forum for Peace and Prosperity, where he underscored the importance of deepening regional economic integration and strengthening strategic partnerships between Africa and the Republic of Korea.

Speaking during a session focused on trade and development, the Secretary-General emphasised the need to boost intra-African trade and foster regional value chains as key pillars for sustainable economic transformation. He noted that meaningful cooperation with global partners, such as Korea, must be rooted in shared priorities and mutual benefit.

The engagement builds on ongoing efforts to operationalise the Korea-AfCFTA Cooperation Fund and follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the AfCFTA Secretariat and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea.

By participating in the Jeju Forum, the AfCFTA Secretariat continues to position the Agreement as a central platform for Africa’s integration into the global economy, while advancing African-led solutions for trade, industrialisation and inclusive growth.