The AUC's primary roles are representing the AU, defending its interests, promoting integration, economic and social development, peace, security, and human rights, and strengthening continental and international cooperation.

The president serves a renewable four-year term and must be African, as the next session will be chaired by the East African Community, which includes Djibouti.

Youssouf believes winning the elections will enhance African integration and relations with other geographical groups due to Djibouti's respected foreign policy.

Youssouf, a candidate in the upcoming elections, expressed his motivation to run based on Djibouti's respect and diplomatic appreciation.

He highlighted his long experience as an ambassador and minister of foreign affairs since 2005, and his deep understanding of the African Union (AU).

Youssouf emphasized the importance of experienced leaders and diplomats to effectively promote continental and international cooperation, given the current circumstances of the continent.

He stated that the next president will be from an East African country, and if elected, Youssouf would focus on strengthening economic integration, developing cooperation, and collaborating with organizations like the UN, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and Arab League.

In early January, Somaliland signed a maritime agreement with Ethiopia, granting it access to the Gulf of Aden.

However, this treaty led to a political crisis between Ethiopia and Somalia, with Somalia cancelling the memorandum and calling it illegal.

Djibouti, which currently chairs the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), is mediating between the two parties in an effort to reach a resolution.

The crisis has distracted attention from the ongoing conflict in Sudan, which Youssouf described as Africa's most forgotten crisis, particularly in terms of refugee and population displacement.

A representative from Djibouti spoke about the ongoing conflict in Sudan, where over 6.5 million people have been displaced, with over a third leaving the country.

The proliferation of ethnically-based militias is a concern.

Djibouti, as a member of IGAD, is working with other member states and the international community, including the US and Saudi Arabia, to find a solution.

Representatives of the parties involved in the crisis have met with Djibouti to discuss a ceasefire and an end to the war.

Attacks on ships in the Red Sea have increased, disrupting this important maritime passage.

Youssouf expressed concern over the security situation in the Bab Al-Mandeb Strait, which is important for international trade and overlooked by Djibouti.

He emphasized that instability in this region has global implications and called for solutions to regional crises.

Additionally, Youssouf urged the international community to take action to end the conflict in Gaza, which has resulted in over 34,000 deaths, displacement, and impending famine, threatening the lives of millions of children.