"Without decisive progress on governance, the Millennium Development Goals will not be achieved. Additional aid alone will not deliver results without a clear commitment to the functioning of the impartial state and the consolidation of a State's capacities to assume its full functions. I therefore welcome the broad and renewed focus on governance by all actors dealing with development.

It is a difficult agenda that can only succeed if driven by political leaders that combine the vision, the strength and the courage to see it through. When that political will is present, it is crucial that we support politically and financially the path of reforms. That is why the European Commission has decided to grant an additional financial support to the African, Caribbean and Pacific countries to those that present an ambitious, relevant and credible reform.

I am convinced that Mo Ibrahim and the initiative developed by his Foundation will lend important support to these home-driven efforts on governance, as it will strengthen recognition and increase visibility for the cause of integrity and dedicated leadership on the African Continent."