Cape Town: South Africa and Nigeria have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening their long-standing ties during the 11th Session of the Bi-National Commission held in Cape Town. This meeting saw President Cyril Ramaphosa and his Nigerian counterpart, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, discuss various avenues for enhancing economic, political, and cultural relations between the two nations.

According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa expressed gratitude toward Nigeria for its role in the international campaign to end apartheid. As both countries mark 30 years of diplomatic relations, Ramaphosa emphasized the strong bonds of friendship that provide a foundation for economic cooperation. South Africa hosts numerous Nigerian companies, while South Africa continues to welcome Nigerian investments, illustrating the mutual economic ties.

Both leaders acknowledged the need to address challenges hindering investment and trade. Efforts are underway to improve the business environment in both co
untries, including South Africa’s recent initiatives to streamline visa processes for Nigerian businesspeople and tourists. These measures aim to enhance the ease of doing business and boost tourism between the two nations.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was highlighted as a crucial mechanism for unlocking further trade opportunities. The agreement is seen as a means to facilitate seamless trade across various products, benefiting both countries. The discussions also covered regional and global matters, with Nigeria being praised for its focus on dialogue and peacebuilding within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

South Africa reiterated its commitment to addressing regional challenges through peaceful resolutions and emphasized the need for reform in global institutions like the United Nations Security Council to reflect current realities. As South Africa holds the G20 Presidency, it aims to prioritize Africa’s development and the challenges of the Global South on the
G20 agenda.

The Bi-National Commission concluded with a renewed commitment to implementing decisions and consolidating cooperation across various sectors, aiming to strengthen regional unity and position Africa as a continent of opportunity. President Tinubu congratulated South Africa on its G20 Presidency and called for deeper collaboration between the two countries for the continent’s benefit.