South Africa and Algeria have concluded a successful 7th session of the Bi-National Commission, marking a significant milestone in strengthening cooperation between the two nations.
President Cyril Ramaphosa recently led a delegation comprising Ministers, senior officials and business leaders in Algeria for a State visit at the invitation of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune.
South Africa and Algeria enjoy strong political, economic, and social relations following the establishment of diplomatic relations in May 1994.
Speaking during a media briefing on Friday, President Ramaphosa said the outcomes of this session have paved the way for further cooperation, demonstrating the strong commitment of South Africa and Algeria to advancing the African continent's collective goals.
“From our discussions, we are certain that this Bi-National Commission will continue to deepen collaboration, trade, investment and people-to-people exchange between South Africa and Algeria.
“President Tebboune and I were extremely satisfied with the detailed report that was presented on progress in the key areas of cooperation between Algeria and South Africa,” President Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said the Bi-National Commission is seen as a mechanism to expand trade and investment ties between the two countries.
While there is currently a healthy volume of bilateral trade, the two Heads of State agreed that this should be far higher.
“With preferential trading now having commenced under the African Continental Free Trade Area, there is even greater opportunity to deepen intra-African trade and strengthen economic linkages between major African economies.
“We have a shared conviction that deepening our bilateral relationship should serve the cause of African economic integration, shared prosperity, stability and peace,” he said.
With the Algeria-South Africa Business Forum having taken place on Thursday, President Ramaphosa said it was an important opportunity for Algerian and South African businesses to explore synergies and plan projects.
South Africa had a sizeable business delegation spanning a range of economic sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, automotive, construction and mining.
“We also have representatives from our Industrial Development Corporation, who are here to pursue investment leads the corporation could potentially fund.
“President Tebboune and I agreed that potential exists for cooperation on low-carbon economic growth in areas such as renewable energy and electric vehicle manufacturing. South Africa and Algeria have respective comparative advantages that can be harnessed for mutual benefit,” he said.
Addressing Geopolitical Challenges
Against the backdrop of rising global geopolitical tensions, President Ramaphosa briefed President Tebboune on South Africa’s case before the International Court of Justice to hold Israel accountable for its actions in Gaza. Both leaders reiterated their call for an end to hostilities, the release of hostages, and the provision of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.
“South Africa and Algeria agree that the only lasting solution to this conflict is the realisation of the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination.
“As countries that have known the pain of occupation and dispossession, we stand in solidarity with the oppressed everywhere, including in Palestine and Western Sahara,” President Ramaphosa said.
As South Africa marks 30 years of democracy, President Ramaphosa extended his gratitude to the noble people of Algeria for standing with the country in its struggle for liberation. – SAnews.gov.za
