Accra, Jan. 22, GNA - President John Agyekum Kufuor on Tuesday held discussions with the African Union (AU) Commission Chairman, Mr. Alpha Oumar Konare at the Castle, Osu.

This was in preparation towards the Heads of State and Government summit in Addis Ababa, about 10 days away.

President Kufuor, who is Chairman of the AU, in remarks before going into closed door session said he was hopeful that the upcoming meeting of the African leaders would be a big success. "We have had a good take off and we are prepared to land smoothly."

He commended Mr Konare for his service to the Continent, saying, he has been identifying with causes that serve to unite Africa. On his part, Mr Konare praised Ghana for the leadership it was giving to the Continent and said, "the Black Star is totally illuminating Africa", and made reference to the Golden Jubilee Celebration and the open debate at the Accra Summit of the AU leaders in July, last year.

He also touched on the on-going 26th edition of the prestigious Confederation of African Nations (CAN) 2008 Tournament and thanked the country for the opportunity it has offered to the African youth.