“Infrastructure is the bedrock of any economic development process. Without it, there can be no progress or development,” said a Senior Fellow at the Policy Center for the New South (PCNS) in a statement to MAP.
For Mr. De Freitas, a visiting professor at the China Foreign Affairs University, the initiatives outlined by HM the King clearly lay out the next steps to be implemented. “Of course, the entire process will take time to materialize, but the most important aspect is the long-term perspective and the need to establish measures that support the construction of a prosperous and stable region,” he added.
“A Chinese proverb says: ‘First build a road, then get rich!’ The King’s speech perfectly encapsulates this fundamental principle by focusing on infrastructure projects that will enhance the quality of life not only in the region but also in neighboring countries, building a shared future with a solid economic foundation.”
According to Mr. De Freitas, “the measures outlined by Her Majesty demonstrate a spirit of building a legacy that transcends generations and creates a new, positive reality that will enable the region to overcome current economic challenges and write a new chapter in its history.”
He further emphasized the importance of cultural integration to strengthen regional ties and reinforce national identity. However, he stressed that the most crucial element is the spirit of cooperation with other African countries to build a new reality on the continent, which is grappling with the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine.
“The continent must constantly reinvent itself, enhance its global competitiveness, and address the numerous challenges it faces. Certainly, the King’s positive vision, and the measures being implemented, will empower the region to navigate the complexities of the new global order,” concluded Mr. De Freitas.