The Nigerian government has told the Republic of South Africa that it will continue to expand bilateral ties for the benefit of citizens and economies in both nations.
Mr Geoffrey Onyeama, Minister of Foreign Affairs, revealed this in Abuja on Monday at the end of the Ministerial Meeting of the 10th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission.
Onyeama expressed optimism that the just finished meeting will make it easier to implement all agreed MoUs/Agreements between the two nations.
He stated that senior officials from both nations discussed a variety of significant matters concerning bilateral ties thoroughly during the meeting.
Given the unusual nature of the event, which brought together a cross-section of important players dealing with the challenges from a number of angles, he said both nations had a good exchange of views.
"I am looking forward to the execution of all agreed Memorandums of Understanding/Agreements between the two nations."
"While the formal portion of our conference concludes today, I hope that this visit will offer some practical perspective to the talks you've had."
"I want to reassure you that the Nigerian government will continue to engage with the South African government to advance bilateral cooperation for the benefit of our people," Onyeama added.
Nigeria and South Africa, according to Onyeama, have "enjoyed warm ties throughout the years, based on fraternity and a common historical fight."
Despite the hurdles created by the Coronavirus and the numerous constraints it put on both nations, he continued, Nigeria and South Africa had achieved their goal of hosting the bi-national commission "at this time" through persistent work.
"This demonstrates our shared commitment to improving our ties and consolidating any gains gained in this respect."
"As a result, it is with thankfulness that I extend a warm greeting to you." Regardless of the obstacles, your participation demonstrates the significance that South Africa places on the potential for mutual benefit that the Bi-National Commission affords.
"As well as the chance to expand our two nations' collaboration and synergy in all areas of mutual interest," Onyeama remarked.
Dr. Naledi Pandor, the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, praised Nigeria's continued commitment to African solidarity with South Africa.
Nigeria's activities, according to Pandor, "reflect its well-known support at tough moments of the anti-apartheid campaign."
"Today we also commemorate the 22nd anniversary of our Bi-National Commission, a significant turning point in our diplomatic ties.
"South Africa's commitment to improving and encouraging greater collaboration and cooperation in bilateral and multilateral partnerships to address our common issues for mutual benefit is the focus of our visit."
"Nigeria and South Africa are vital to Africa's growth and advancement, and they must use their strengths to help the continent," Pandor added.
"We can alter the lives of our people by resolutely committing to our bilateral cooperation and implementing the developmental objectives of the African Union Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals," he added.
Early Warning Mechanism, Agreement on Arts and Culture, Agreement on Youth Development, and Agreement on Immigration are among the agreements that both nations must ratify.
(NAN)
Author:Agency Report
