[Title] Plenary 1 "Overview of the Progress of the TICAD Process since TICAD VI" Co-Chairs' Summary

Plenary 1 was held on the theme of "Overview of the Progress of the TICAD Process since TICAD VI". The introductory statement by Mr. Abdoulaye Mar Dieye, Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), highlighted the continuing relevance of TICAD V and TICAD VI declarations for Africa's sustainable development. In line with Africa's Agenda 2063 and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), he called on international community to step up its support to Africa, and work with Africa to tackle priorities identified at TICAD VI, including economic structural transformation, enhanced resiliencies, as well as peace and stability.

The continued relevance of TICAD V and VI recommendations and priorities was confirmed by the participants. Participants also welcomed the steady progress of the TICAD process and implementation of a wide range of measures by TICAD partners, and called for the accelerated implementation of measures and the promotion of partnerships in support of TICAD priorities. Participants also showed their readiness to work together with the TICAD co-organizers to further enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the TICAD Follow-up Mechanism, especially in light of the shortened summit cycle and increasing range of key stakeholders.

Recognizing the increasing importance of the role of the private sector in securing the sustainable development, and reflecting on the need for increased investment in human capitals, many participants stressed their wish to enhance the private sector partnerships between Africa and its international partners. In this regard, they expressed high expectation for the first Japan-Africa Public and Private Economic Forum, to be held in Africa in 2018.

Participants observed that reform efforts by respective government were indispensable to unlock private investment in Africa and in this regard welcomed the efforts made toward economic transformation and diversification. Several policy priorities emerged from the discussion; structural reforms, quality infrastructure, agricultural productivity, low-end manufacturing, stable legal system for business, environmental conservation, added value enhancement and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) including private sector financing.

While welcoming the progress made, some participants expressed concern over the challenges to human security including acts of terrorism, the spread of violent extremism, climate change, infectious diseases and poverty. As these issues are urgent and directly linked with social stability, they called on all stakeholders to reinforce their efforts.

H.E. Mr. Taro Kono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, in his concluding remark reported on steady implementation of Japan's commitments announced at TICAD V and TICAD VI. He welcomed Africa's efforts for self-sustained development and renewed Japan's commitments to support their ownership. Highlighting some good practices of south-south and triangular cooperation, he encouraged all TICAD stakeholders to accelerate their efforts in the priority areas identified in TICAD VI and further expand partnerships to enhance effectiveness of their activities. He also looked forward to further collaboration of business partnerships between Japan and Africa.

The session renewed the commitment of African countries, Japan, and other development partners to the continued enhancement of the TICAD process, and acceleration of respective works in the run-up to TICAD 7 (Yokohama, 2019).