Receiving a Special Award from the OAU Assembly of Heads of State And Government

"I sincerely believe that while this award has been conferred on me as an individual, its major significance lies in the collective accomplishments of our Organization throughout its existence. The fact that this occasion is taking place on the eve of transforming the OAU into the African Union underscores the collective realization that this award signifies." - Dr. Salim, July 8, 2002