But the Western countries that link their partnership with the poorest countries with respect for democracy also have to consider that they have obligations towards these countries.

The shock caused by the September 11 events has also lead to a thorough reflection on the existing disparity between rich and poor countries, on the misery of populations of the South.

In short, we have, among African countries, a duty of solidarity.

The resources of our continent attract, more than ever, the interests of rich countries.

For about ten years now, the struggle for democracy and the respect of human rights has been in the focus point - if not a commodity - of political groups aiming to rise to power.

There is an idea of democracy produced by one-sided thinking.