Nigeria has formally requested South Africa’s support in gaining full membership in the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank, while also seeking cooperation in leadership roles during South Africa’s G20 presidency. The request was made by Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace and the resolution of the Sudanese crisis.
On Monday, Nigeria sought South Africa’s endorsement to enhance its position for full membership in the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank. This request was articulated by Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, during her closing remarks at the ministerial session of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission held in Cape Town. In her address, Ojukwu emphasized the importance of South Africa’s cooperation in taking on leadership roles within significant thematic discussions during its presidency of the G20.
With South Africa recently assuming leadership of the G20 on December 1, there is a renewed focus on the BRICS initiative, which includes countries that have been pivotal to global economic growth, collectively accounting for about 37% of the world’s GDP. Ojukwu also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to fostering regional peace, specifically urging South Africa to assist in expediting the peace process in Sudan, a matter that has gained crucial importance under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, who is part of the African Union’s mediation committee.
The minister highlighted Nigeria’s dedication to resolving the ongoing Sudanese crisis, stating that, “We are dedicated to resolving the Sudan situation, and under this pretext, we request South Africa’s assistance in accelerating the peace process and ensuring that tensions in our region are de-escalated. With peace, we can aspire for better progress and development in all fields.” Additionally, Ojukwu commended the efforts of both nations’ representatives for their contributions during the BNC ministerial session.
In response, Dr. Roland Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, assured that South Africa would amplify the African continent’s voice during its G20 presidency while also acknowledging Nigeria’s aspirations.
Nigeria’s outreach to South Africa highlights its strategic approach to international cooperation, actively seeking to enhance its role in global economic forums such as BRICS and the G20. The significance of BRICS in fostering global economic development is underscored by its substantial share of the world GDP, making Nigeria’s bid for membership a potentially transformative step. Furthermore, regional stability, as emphasized by Nigeria’s desire for South Africa’s support in the Sudan peace process, is crucial for both countries, reinforcing their commitment to collaborative African leadership and development.
In summary, Nigeria’s request for South Africa’s support in securing full membership in the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank underscores the country’s ambition to play a more significant role in international affairs. This call for cooperation not only seeks to enhance economic engagement but also emphasizes the necessity of joint efforts in regional peace initiatives, particularly in relation to the Sudan crisis. Both nations are poised to benefit from strengthened ties amidst their current diplomatic engagements.
Original Source: newscentral.africa
