The European Union (EU) has unveiled a long-term strategy for Africa which it says marks a step change in the way the EU deals with Africa.

"The strategy is a clear signal that the EU is serious about changing its cooperation with Africa," said Henry Sprietsma, head of the Delegation of the European Commission to Zambia, in a statement released here on Wednesday.

Sprietsma said the partnership between the EU and African countries is based on strong political dialogue between equal partners and must avoid a paternalistic approach.

He further noted that the partnership is not aimed at substituting states but enhancing their capacities, promoting ownership and good governance.

From the beginning of 2006, the EU will intensify the preparations to put in place several initiatives proposed under the strategy.

The initiatives include the Euro-African Partnership for Infrastructure and Networks which is aimed at promoting regional and continental interconnection to support regional integration, the EU Governance Initiative which will provide assistance for the implementation of the governance reforms proposed by the Africa Peer Review Mechanism (APRM).

Besides, the EU is planning to hold the Euro-Africa Business Forum in a bid to bring together entrepreneurs and public and private investors from both Europe and Africa.

The strategy, proposed by the European Commission in October, was endorsed by the General Affairs and External Relations Council on Monday.

The strategy also marks a culmination of a year where the international community and, more particularly, the EU have put the focus on Africa, the statement said.

Source: Xinhua