After 19 years of losing its status, Israel has submitted a letter of credence to rejoin the African Union as an observer, Standardobservers has learnt.
Israel lost its status in 2002 following the dissolution of the Organisation of African Unity and replacement of same with African Union.
Other factors which led to it losing it status include pressure from the late Libyan leader, Muammar Gaddafi.
Israel’s ambassador to Addis Ababa, Aleleign Admasu, submitted letter of credence to Félix Tshisekedi, Chairperson of AU to regain its observer’s status.
Yair Lapid, Israel’s foreign minister, attributed the milestone achievement to the effort of the foreign ministry, noting that the “diplomatic achievement” will correct the anomaly that have existed in their relationship with Africa, The Cable reports.
“This is a day of celebration for Israel-Africa relations. This diplomatic achievement is the result of efforts by the Foreign Ministry, the African Division, and Israeli embassies on the continent,” he said.
“This corrects the anomaly that existed for almost two decades,” Lapid continued, “and is an important part of strengthening of fabric of Israel’s foreign relations. This will help us strengthen our activities in the continent and in the organization’s member states.”
This relationship is believe to strengthen Israel’s influence over the member states, and serve as a way to obstruct Palestinian relationship with African countries.
