The last bit preparatory meeting for the negotiations took place in Addis Ababa, with several African Union governments, the UN and Control Arms representatives attending. ATT President Designate Peter Woolcott also attended the meeting to hear the views of governments and NGOs. Active discussions about the current text of treaty took place over the two days, with many governments highlighting the need for ammunition, parts and components in particular to be covered for an effective and strong treaty.
The passion of the meeting was summed up well by representatives from Ghana:
“Let the world know that Africa will not agree a weak treaty. Let them carry on trading their weapons, and our bodies on their TV screens can be on their conscience.”
