Nigeria has requested South Africa’s support for its membership in the G20 and BRICS in a meeting in Cape Town. The Nigerian Minister emphasized the need for collaboration on regional peace initiatives, especially concerning the crisis in Sudan. South Africa expressed commitment to bolster Nigeria’s contributions during its G20 presidency, highlighting areas for bilateral cooperation in trade, security, and economic development.
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Nigeria has requested South Africa’s assistance in its pursuit of full membership in notable international organizations such as the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, made this appeal during her concluding remarks at the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) meeting held in Cape Town, South Africa. She emphasized Nigeria’s intention to take on leadership roles in pertinent discussions during South Africa’s G20 presidency.
As South Africa recently took over the presidency of the G20, a coalition of major global economies, Nigeria aims to leverage its support in navigating the complexities of these international platforms. In highlighting the strategic importance of the BRICS economic bloc, which accounts for approximately 37 percent of the global GDP, Odumegwu-Ojukwu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to regional diplomatic efforts, particularly with respect to the ongoing crisis in Sudan.
The Minister underscored that President Bola Tinubu has made it a priority to work towards establishing peace and stability in Sudan, seeking cooperation from South Africa to expedite the peace process. “We can hope that with peace, greater progress and development can be achieved across all spheres,” she stated.
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Roland Lamola, expressed solidarity with Nigeria’s requests and emphasized the importance of mutual collaboration between the two nations. In response, he noted, “We will count on Nigeria’s wise counsel as we assume this major responsibility,” acknowledging both countries’ potential to enhance the quality of life for their citizens through stronger cooperation.
Areas of potential collaboration were also highlighted, which include trade, investment, health, education, agriculture, and technology. The discussions aim to fast-track the implementation of agreements established under the BNC framework, setting the stage for a future meeting between Presidents Tinubu and Ramaphosa, where critical agreements will be finalized. Odumegwu-Ojukwu reiterated Nigeria’s interest in a partnership with South Africa for the capacity development of mining professionals, proposing a draft Memorandum of Understanding for consideration.
This article discusses Nigeria’s diplomatic efforts to expand its influence on international platforms and strengthen bilateral relations with South Africa. With South Africa currently holding the presidency of the G20, Nigeria seeks to align itself with key global economic discussions and initiatives. The engagement is part of a broader strategy to enhance Nigeria’s role in regional peace and development through collaborative efforts in various sectors, including infrastructure and mining.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s appeal for South Africa’s support reflects its ambitions to enhance its representation within global organizations such as the G20 and BRICS. As both nations navigate these discussions, the focus remains on improving bilateral relations, fostering economic growth, and accelerating peace initiatives within the region, especially concerning the crisis in Sudan. This cooperation could propel both nations toward achieving shared development goals.
Original Source: punchng.com
