“…376 The objectives of ECCAS include the promotion and strengthening of harmonious cooperation and self-sustained development in all fields of social and economic activity in order to "achieve collective self-reliance, raise the standard of living of its peoples, increase and maintain economic stability, foster close and peaceful relations between Member States and contribute to the progress and development of the African continent." 378 The stages are set out in the following The total duration of the stages may be increased or reduced only by a decision adopted by consensus and the transition period may not be reduced to 10 years or under or increasing it to more than 20 years from its initiation. 378 The stages are set out in the following The total duration of the stages may be increased or reduced only by a decision adopted by consensus and the transition period may not be reduced to 10 years or under or increasing it to more than 20 years from its initiation.…”