Cape Town: International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has highlighted the critical need for South Africa and Nigeria to significantly boost their investment and trade relations. Addressing his Nigerian counterpart, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Lamola asserted that the large economies of both nations warrant far greater economic collaboration, aiming for substantial outcomes.
According to South African Government News Agency, Lamola made these comments during the Ministerial Meeting of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town. Co-chaired with Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the meeting focused on identifying bankable projects, particularly in infrastructure development, as a strategic priority to enhance economic cooperation. Lamola emphasized the importance of expanding trade relations and capitalizing on the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to unlock the abundant potential within both countries.
Lamola also stressed the sign
ificance of strengthening people-to-people relations, which he believes is vital for fostering mutual understanding, friendship, and shared values. This approach, he said, promotes tourism, creative industries, sporting events, and collaboration in education and science, allowing citizens to appreciate the rich cultural heritage of both nations.
As South Africa and Nigeria celebrate 30 years of diplomatic relations, the morning session of the BNC focused on evaluating progress on past decisions and strategizing ways to deepen bilateral collaboration. Lamola underscored the historical responsibility of the two nations to address regional, continental, and global challenges, advocating for peace through dialogue, a stance consistently upheld by Nigeria in its leadership role within ECOWAS.
Addressing concerns about global peace and security, Lamola highlighted the increasing fragmentation and fragility in world affairs, which threaten the foundations of a peaceful global society. He called for reforms in glob
al institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council, to make them more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all states.
Assuring Nigeria of South Africa’s commitment to African developmental priorities during its G20 Presidency, Lamola welcomed Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu and her delegation, expressing eagerness for productive deliberations. The BNC session will continue with President Cyril Ramaphosa co-chairing the 11th session alongside Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.