‘Nigeria a strategic partner of SA’
SOUTH Africa and Nigeria were determined to make up for lost time at the Bi-National Commission held in Pretoria yesterday, after a lapse of six years.
In her opening remarks at the BNC, Minister of International Relations Naledi Pandor warmly greeted her counterpart, Geoffrey Onyeama, saying: “South Africa considers Nigeria a great friend and strategic partner. Nigeria became the only West African country to become a member of the Frontline States and indeed occupied the trenches of struggle with us.
“The historic bonds established during the liberation struggle continue today,” she said.
Pandor thanked Onyeama for the assistance given to South Africa during the recent outbreak of violence against foreign nationals and South Africans.
“We have expressed regret at these terrible events on several occasions, personally, as well as through our president and his special envoys.
“I was most appreciative of your openness in discussing these challenges with me and the assurance you gave and acted on in support of our missions and South African businesses that faced attacks,” Pandor said.
The ninth session of the BNC had been touted as clear evidence of the intentions to further deepen ties between the two countries.
South Africa is determined to continue implementing development strategies that would ensure economic growth, socio-economic development and inclusive prosperity for the mutual benefit of South Africans and Nigerians.
“South Africa is determined to continue working together with our sister country Nigeria to fasttrack continental co-operation and to take stock of the implementation of the Africa Continental Free Trade Agreement.
“This agreement, if properly implemented, will unleash Africa’s economic potential and consolidate its position as a new frontier of economic growth and development,” Pandor said.
Currently, 32 agreements and memoranda of understanding in various fields exist between the two countries, and while some are being implemented, it is acknowledged on both sides that more still needs to be done.
retaliatory