Nigeria has sought South Africa’s support for its G20 and BRICS membership applications. During a ministerial session, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister emphasized collaboration for leadership roles and regional peace efforts, particularly regarding the Sudan crisis. This appeal aligns with Nigeria’s ambition for increased influence in international forums and reflects ongoing diplomatic relations between the two countries.
On Monday, Nigeria actively sought the support of South Africa concerning its aspirations for full membership in the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank. During her closing remarks at the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission ministerial session, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, emphasized the importance of South Africa’s cooperation in securing leadership roles in thematic discussions during its G20 presidency.
This meeting took place in Cape Town, coinciding with South Africa’s official leadership of the Group of 20, which comprises the world’s most affluent nations. The extended BRICS group, which includes South Africa, is recognized for its significant contribution to global economic development, accounting for nearly 37% of the world’s GDP. Ms. Odumegwu-Ojukwu reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to fostering regional peace, particularly with respect to the ongoing Sudan peace efforts.
She highlighted President Bola Tinubu’s commitment as a member of the African Union’s ad hoc mediation committee to resolving the Sudan crisis to enhance regional stability. She stated, “We are dedicated to resolving the Sudan situation, and under this pretext, we request South Africa’s assistance in accelerating the peace process and ensuring that tensions in our region are de-escalated. With peace, we can aspire for better progress and development in all fields.”
The Minister commended the efforts of both nations’ officials for their hard work in formulating a draft statement that reflects necessary amendments during the session. The agreed-upon communiqué will be presented to Presidents Tinubu and Cyril Ramaphosa in a subsequent presidential session of the Bi-National Commission. In response, Dr. Roland Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, expressed that South Africa intends to enhance Africa’s prominence during its G20 presidency while acknowledging Nigeria’s expressed desires.
The recent interactions between Nigeria and South Africa hold significant implications for international diplomacy and regional cooperation within Africa. As both countries navigate their roles in global forums such as the G20 and BRICS, their collaboration can influence policies that directly affect economic growth and geopolitical stability across the continent. South Africa, as a leading voice in these organizations, has the potential to amplify Nigeria’s ambitions, particularly in light of Nigeria’s assertion to play a larger role in addressing conflicts like that in Sudan, which impacts regional security and development.
In conclusion, Nigeria has formally requested South Africa’s support for its bid to join BRICS, the G20, and the BRICS New Development Bank. This plea illustrates Nigeria’s commitment to a proactive role in international diplomacy, particularly in seeking solutions for regional issues like the Sudan crisis. The cooperation highlighted during the Bi-National Commission session signifies a strengthening of ties between the two nations, aiming for mutual benefits and broader African representation on the global stage.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
