David Lammy, during his first visit to Africa as Foreign Secretary, pledged to build respectful partnerships focusing on collaboration and growth. He aims to sign a strategic partnership with Nigeria, addressing economic ties and climate change, before meeting with South Africa’s Foreign Minister to develop a UK-South Africa Growth Plan. Lammy emphasized the importance of Africa’s growth potential and the government’s goal of fostering long-term relationships with African countries.
David Lammy has embarked on his inaugural visit to Africa as the Foreign Secretary, aiming to establish “respectful partnerships”. His visit, commencing in Nigeria, includes the signing of a new strategic partnership prior to his travel to South Africa. This initiative marks a departure within the Foreign Office, promoting a collaborative and productive approach from Morocco to Madagascar. Reflecting on Africa’s potential, Mr. Lammy stated, “Africa has huge growth potential, with the continent on track to make up 25% of the world’s population by 2050.” He emphasized the need to develop relationships that prioritize listening to African partners rather than dictating terms, thereby fostering mutual growth and understanding. The partnership with Nigeria will focus on critical areas such as economic collaboration, national security, and addressing climate change concerns. Mr. Lammy is anticipated to engage with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu to further discuss trade and climate issues. Likewise, in South Africa, he will meet with Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola to formulate a new UK-South Africa Growth Plan. Mr. Lammy reiterated the government’s focus on growth as central to its mission, which he asserts will enhance relationships with Nigeria, South Africa, and other African nations, ultimately leading to increased job opportunities and prosperity for both British citizens and Africans. On the day he assumed office, Mr. Lammy underscored the necessity to redefine relations with the Global South, highlighting the strategic importance of African nations amidst growing interests from global powers such as Russia and China.
The article discusses the first official visit of David Lammy as the Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom to Africa. It outlines his objectives, which include the establishment of a new strategic partnership with Nigeria, focusing on economic ties, national security, and climate change. Mr. Lammy’s visit signifies a shift in the UK’s approach towards Africa, aiming to foster relationships based on mutual respect and long-term collaboration rather than short-term gains. The significance of Africa’s growth potential is also highlighted, particularly in relation to demographic changes anticipated by 2050.
In conclusion, David Lammy’s visit to Africa as the Foreign Secretary symbolizes a transformative approach to UK relations with the continent. By prioritizing respectful partnerships that emphasize collaboration and listening, Mr. Lammy aims to cultivate economic ties and address significant global challenges such as climate change and security. The initiatives set forth during this visit are poised to reinforce the UK’s commitment to fostering sustainable and productive interactions with African nations, including Nigeria and South Africa.
Original Source: www.standard.co.uk
