African powerhouses, South Africa and Nigeria, are set for bilateral discussions this week as Nigerian President, Muhammadu Buhari, makes his way to South Africa for the ninth session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) on Thursday.
Speaking at the department’s offices in Pretoria on Wednesday, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Naledi Pandor, accompanied by Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama, said the two nations had common goals and should work hand-in-hand to combat challenges facing them.
“The historic bonds established during the liberation struggle continue today. (We are) now solely focused on addressing the triple challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment in the two countries,” she said.
The objective of these discussions is to strengthen ties between two of Africa’s economical giants, paving the way for future trade deals and economic development that will hopefully benefit the whole continent.
“South Africa is determined to continue to implement and develop strategies directed at ensuring economic growth, strengthening economic development, and inclusive prosperity for the mutual benefit of all our people and the people of Nigeria,” she continued.
“This session is our clear intention of further deepening ties. I’m encouraged to note that since the signing of the BNC in 1999 we have been purposeful in pursuing tangible outcomes aimed at ensuring real change,” she concluded.
There will be more discussed than just economics after the recent resurgence of attacks on foreign nationals in SA, with the government welcoming Nigeria’s assistance in the fight against xenophobia.
“Thank you for your openness during the discussions as well as for assurances that have since been acted upon,” said the Minister.
