CAIRO: Egypt’s Foreign Minister Dr. Badr Abdel Atty met with South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr. Ronald Lamola, marking the commencement of the first round of political consultations between their nations. This meeting, held on Thursday, 14th November 2024, was a direct result of the directives from the political leadership of both countries and recommendations from the 10th Joint Committee session held in May 2024.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the primary goal of these consultations is to align perspectives and coordinate positions concerning current regional and international challenges. Both ministers acknowledged the longstanding historical relations between Egypt and South Africa and expressed a desire to enhance cooperation across various fields.

The discussions highlighted the importance of strengthening economic and trade relations, reflecting the two countries’ stature and potential within Africa. A mechanism was proposed to follow up on the outco
mes of the 10th Joint Committee session, ensuring ongoing coordination to achieve mutual interests.

Key topics included regional and international situations of shared concern, with both sides stressing the importance of continued collaboration to tackle challenges in the Middle East and Africa. The ministers exchanged views on African Union issues and ways to foster integration among African nations.

The consultations also addressed developments in regions such as Gaza, Sudan, Libya, the Horn of Africa, Southern Africa, and the Central Lakes Region, with a particular focus on water security. Regarding Gaza, discussions centered on Egypt’s mediation efforts for an immediate ceasefire and recent legal proceedings at the International Court of Justice concerning Israeli actions in the region.

The consultations concluded with the signing of a joint bilateral statement and a press conference featuring the foreign ministers of both countries.