Nigeria has requested South Africa’s support for its membership in the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank during the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission meeting. Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to resolving regional crises, notably in Sudan, and emphasized the importance of enhanced bilateral relations across various sectors.
On Monday, Nigeria expressed its desire for South Africa to support its quest for full membership in the G20 and BRICS, as well as the BRICS New Development Bank. This request was made by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, during the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission meeting held in Cape Town. Additionally, Nigeria seeks South Africa’s endorsement for leadership roles in discussions pertinent to their interests under South Africa’s G20 presidency.
In her remarks, Minister Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and requested South Africa’s assistance in expediting the peace process in Sudan. She highlighted the significance of peace for regional development, stating, “We are strongly committed to seeking a resolution of the crisis in Sudan and in this guise, we seek South Africa’s support to further accelerate the peace process and to ensure that within our region, conflicts are de-escalated.”
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Roland Lamola, acknowledged Nigeria’s requests and emphasized the importance of collaborating to improve the quality of life for their citizens. He mentioned that South Africa would leverage its G20 presidency to amplify Africa’s voice. The focus will be on enhancing bilateral relations through various sectors, including trade and investment, education, and climate change.
The discussions at the session laid the groundwork for an upcoming high-level engagement between Presidents Tinubu and Ramaphosa, where key agreements to fortify the Nigeria-South Africa strategic partnership will be formalized.
Currently, Nigeria is vying for influential positions within global economic forums, specifically the G20 and BRICS, reflecting its ambition to elevate its role on the international stage. South Africa’s presidency of the G20 is regarded as a pivotal opportunity for Nigeria, as both nations share significant economic and political ties. In this context, peace and stability within the region, particularly concerning crises like that in Sudan, are seen as essential for fostering further development and cooperation between the two countries.
In summary, Nigeria seeks South Africa’s support for its engagement in global economic forums while prioritizing regional peace and cooperation. Collaborative efforts across various sectors are anticipated to enrich bilateral relations as both nations look toward a sustainable partnership that benefits their citizens and the continent as a whole.
Original Source: punchng.com
