Assembly/AU/7 (X) Add.1 Page 2 For the same reason, we organized in Dakar, in 2004, the first Conference of Intellectuals of Africa and the Diaspora. The second conference was held in Salvador de Bahia in 2005. Furthermore, such an initiative would also enhance preparations for the African Union/African Diaspora Summit, at the level of Heads of State and Government, scheduled for the first half of 2008 in South Africa. It is in the more embracing prospect of bringing the Diaspora on board in the accomplishment of the “African Union” project that I propose to the Conference to accept in the deliberations of our Assemblies a representation of the Diaspora. This representation will sit, following the principle of rotation, for a term of five years, as a privileged observer. It could take the floor if the Conference requested their views on a specific topic. It will, above all, be in an ideal position to report, to those they represent, on our discussions on development where our needs are most urgent.