ADDIS ABABA, March 25 (Xinhua) -- African Union (AU) Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf has appointed former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete as the AU's High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea.

In a statement issued Wednesday, the AU said that Kikwete will support the 55-member continental organization's efforts to address the complex political, peace and security dynamics across the region.

As the AU's High Representative for the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea, Kikwete's mandate is said to include advancing preventive diplomacy, facilitating inclusive political dialogue, promoting confidence-building among stakeholders, and strengthening regional cooperation mechanisms aimed at fostering sustainable peace and stability.

The former Tanzanian president is expected to work in close coordination with relevant regional and international partners, including the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, the East African Community, the League of Arab States, the United Nations, and other partners.

"This coordinated engagement is particularly critical considering the strategic importance of the Horn of Africa and the Red Sea for international trade and the broader stability of the African continent," the AU said.

Youssouf expressed his full confidence in Kikwete, whose experience, leadership and wisdom "will make a significant contribution to supporting countries in the region, as well as relevant regional and international mechanisms, in addressing prevailing challenges and advancing durable peace, stability and prosperity." ■