President Sarkozy in Africa - More Detail Needed on Aid Plans

02.29.08

In a speech to the South African parliament in Pretoria, Mr Sarkozy says he wants France to contribute more actively to the fight against poverty in Africa.

“We were pleased to hear the President re-emphasise French support for achieving the Millennium Development Goals and his commitment to maintain France’s financial commitments in this field,” said DATA Executive Director Jamie Drummond.

“We await details on how France will keep its overall aid quantity and quality promises. That means spelling out how to meet its pledge to raise overseas development assistance to 0.7percent of GNI by 2012 – and how to fulfill the Paris Declaration on aid effectiveness."