"Our continent must develop a vision, interact and engage not only with its partners but also within Africa, through South-South cooperation, to make significant progress in achieving its economic integration," he said at a roundtable marking Africa Day (May 25).
The entry into force of the Continental Free Trade Agreement is a major achievement that will serve this purpose, he stated at the event held by the Moroccan Embassy in Kenya in partnership with the Pan African Congress - Kenya Chapter.
African economic integration, as stipulated in Agenda 2063, will also help overcome the challenge of food insecurity, Laassel said, adding that the best way to celebrate Africa Day is to engage in continental thinking for Africa's economic liberation.
The roundtable, which was attended by government officials, elected officials, diplomats and members of the civil society, discussed the challenges facing the African continent, particularly food insecurity.
Participants in the roundtable stressed the role of the African Union in preserving stability, calling for urgent solutions to food insecurity and famine.
The issue of education was also at the heart of the debates, the panelists being convinced that the solution for a prosperous and integrated Africa lies in the future generations.