Commemorating the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Organization of African Unity (OAU) and commending its successor, the African Union.

extends warm congratulations to the former member states of the Organization of African Unity on the 50th year anniversary of its founding, in particular its original 32 member states;

commends member states of the African Union for their strong and determined joint efforts to promote democratic societies, sustainable development, and sound economic practices, and peace, security, and stability on the continent;

urges President Barack Obama to continue to strongly support efforts to advance and strengthen United States-African Union cooperation, including through United States programs to help build the capacities of the African Union;

encourages President Barack Obama to expedite and expand United States efforts to achieve the goals and objectives of his United States Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa; and

emphasizes the rule of law, good governance, respect for human rights, and open markets and equitable socioeconomic growth and development as key pillars for long-term stability and security on the continent of and United States engagement with Africa.