The two-day meeting brings together experts from the continent and its diaspora, and marks the commencement of the implementation of the first key element of the AU/South Africa African Diaspora roadmap.

Fransman was of the view that the African Diaspora could contribute to the advancement of the continent.

"It is indeed correct to emphasise the centrality of the African Diaspora in the pursuit of a vision of a united, peaceful and prosperous Africa."

He also emphasised that the New Partnership for Africa's Development remained a programme which provides a framework within which the continent has to engage with its Diaspora to promote socio-economic development on the continent.

It is expected that this meeting will review the work already done in preparations for the postponed 2008 Summit. This will include review of the 2007 Ministerial Documents and the Draft Summit Declaration, among others.