President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Nigerian counterpart, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, have paid tribute to the existing deep fraternal relations between the two nations.
In a joint communique on the 11th session of the South Africa - Nigeria Bi-National Commission on Tuesday, the two Heads of State and Government once more acknowledged the strong support that Nigeria provided to the liberation movements in South Africa during South Africa’s struggle for freedom and democracy.
President Tinubu was in South Africa for a working visit at the invitation of President Ramaphosa to co-chair the 11th Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries.
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The BNC was preceded by a meeting of Senior Officials on 28 and 29 November 2024 and the Ministers Meeting on 02 December 2024.
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The 11th Session of the BNC also marked the 30th anniversary of formal establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
“The two Heads of State and Government renewed their commitment to work closely to broaden and sustain the two nations’ bilateral relationship in a manner that enhances strategic cooperation and partnership for mutual benefit. In this regard, the Heads of State and Government directed the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies to deepen their cooperation in the context of the BNC,” the joint communique read.
The Heads of State and Government acknowledged the more than 34 Agreements covering various sectors which have been signed since the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries in 1994.
“The two leaders underscored the need to urgently finalise the MoU [Memorandum of Understanding] on the Early Warning Mechanism. To this end, it was agreed that the MoU will be signed, no later than March 2025, during the visit of the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation to Nigeria, for Political Consultations.
“The two leaders also welcomed the ongoing negotiations to conclude other new agreements,” the communique said.
Investment
The Heads of State also welcomed the high levels of economic cooperation between the two countries. In this regard, they welcomed the significant investments of South African companies in Nigeria and encouraged corresponding Nigerian investments in the South African economy.
The leaders recognised the need for the two countries to create an enabling business environment in both countries.
“The two leaders agreed to encourage cooperation and partnership between private and public entities for investment in mining, infrastructure development in rail, road, ports, amongst others. In this regard Nigeria invited South Africa’s Development Finance Institutions to partner with Nigeria in co-financing infrastructure projects,” the communique read.
The leaders further made a commitment to work towards increased and balanced trade between the two countries by utilising the opportunities provided by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). Both South Africa and Nigeria have ratified the AfCFTA.
Addressing mutual challenges
The two countries also agree to collaborate on programmes that address mutual challenges in food and nutrition security, strengthening meaningful digital connectivity, taking leadership in the development of artificial intelligence, expanding digital literacy initiatives, as well as prioritising data protection and online safety for all citizens.
The two leaders welcomed the convening of the South Africa-Nigeria business roundtable held on the margins of the 11th session of the BNC during which they had an opportunity to address and engage with Chief Executives of companies from both countries.
“The Heads of State and Government also exchanged views on regional, continental and global issues of mutual concern. Nigeria highlighted its efforts and those of ECOWAS [Economic Community of West African States] in fostering and promoting peace and security in West Africa. South Africa also outlined efforts undertaken by the Southern African Development Community [SADC] in supporting peace initiatives in both the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and northern Mozambique”.
The delegations also underscored the need to redouble efforts to realise the African Union (AU) Agenda 2063 Aspiration to “Silence the Guns”.
In this regard, the Heads of State and Government expressed concern at the devastating conflict in Sudan, which has resulted in the loss of lives, destruction of infrastructure and property and a humanitarian crisis.
The Heads of State and Government also reflected on the upcoming elections for the leadership of the African Union Commission and underscored the need for the election of the leadership that would be responsive to the challenges facing the African continent.
International developments
“The two countries further exchanged views on international developments, particularly the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and called for a ceasefire in Gaza and increased access to humanitarian aid.
“The Heads of State and Government reiterated their principled position that the only long-lasting solution to the resolution of the conflict, is to advance a two-State solution where Israel will exist side by side in peace and harmony with a viable and fully independent Palestinian State. Nigeria commended South Africa for taking the case of Israel and Palestine to the International Court of Justice,” the communique read.
Similarly, the Heads of State and Government agreed to intensify support for the cause of Western Sahara for self-determination, freedom, and justice.
Reforms
“The two Heads of State and Government further renewed their call for a responsive international system of governance through a reformed United Nations Security Council, respect for and promotion of universal human rights in a just and equitable world,” the communique said.
South Africa congratulated Nigeria on the re-appointment of Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as the Director General of the World Trade Organisation. South Africa and Nigeria agreed to work closely together in international organizations.
G20
Meanwhile, Nigeria congratulated South Africa on its assumption of the G20 Presidency from 01 December 2024 and commended South Africa on its priorities which address inclusive economic growth, industrialisation and the reduction of inequality, food security and artificial intelligence, data governance and innovation.
Agenda 2063
The Heads of State and Government further committed to working closely with the African Union and each other to advance the African Agenda in pursuit of the implementation of Agenda 2063.
According to the AU, Agenda 2063 is Africa's development blueprint to achieve inclusive and sustainable socio-economic development over a 50-year period.
At the end of the 11th Session of the BNC, President Tinubu expressed his gratitude to President Ramaphosa, for the warm reception and hospitality accorded to him and his delegation since their arrival in Cape Town. – SAnews.gov.za
