The African Union has said it is concerned about the consequences of a new travel ban imposed by the United States on seven nations on the continent.
This was contained in a statement posted on the organisation’s website on Thursday
According to the AU, the US decision should have been taken “in a manner that is balanced, evidence-based, and reflective of the long-standing partnership between the United States and Africa.”
The statement went further to state, “The Commission remains concerned about the potential negative impact of such measures on people-to-people ties, educational exchange, commercial engagement, and the broader diplomatic relations that have been carefully nurtured over decades. Africa and the United States share mutual interests in promoting peace, prosperity, and global cooperation.”
The AU also appealed to the U.S. to consider adopting a more consultative approach and to engage in constructive dialogue with the countries concerned. “The Commission appeals for transparent communication, and where necessary, collaborative efforts to address any underlying issues that may have informed this decision,” the statement said.
The Commission said it stands ready to support efforts that promote understanding, resolve concerns, and strengthen cooperation between Africa and the United States.
U.S. President Donald Trump announced a travel restriction policy imposing a ban on citizens of 12 countries from entering the United States.
In addition to this, visitors from seven other nations will face heightened entry restrictions.
The new measures are to prevent the sudden airport disruptions witnessed during a similar 2017 ban.
In an official White House statement, Trump laid out the reasons for the new travel ban, pointing to the exploitation of the U.S. visa system by some countries.
“Many of these countries have also taken advantage of the United States in their exploitation of our visa system and their historic failure to accept back their removable nationals.
“As President, I must act to protect the national security and national interest of the United States and its people,” he stated
He also expressed openness to working with countries willing to improve security cooperation.
“I remain committed to engaging with those countries willing to cooperate to improve information-sharing and identity-management procedures, and to address both terrorism-related and public-safety risks,” he said.
The 12 countries whose citizens are banned outright include:
This ban is a revival of Trump’s 2017 travel ban, which barred entry to citizens from seven mostly Muslim countries and faced multiple legal challenges before being upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.
This ban is a revival of Trump’s 2017 travel ban, which barred entry to citizens from seven mostly Muslim countries and faced multiple legal challenges before being upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018.
The current ban expands the list based on updated security reviews and visa overstay data.