South Africa is committed to enhancing its bilateral relations with Zimbabwe, according to Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola. Following a meeting with Zimbabwe’s Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Ambassador Frederick Shava, at the new Parliament building in Mt Hampden, Minister Lamola emphasized the importance of the two nations’ continued friendship.
During the meeting, which took place after the SADC Council of Ministers gathering, Minister Lamola congratulated Ambassador Shava on assuming the chairmanship of the Council of Ministers.
“It was a very fruitful meeting to strengthen the bilaterals between the two countries, Zimbabwe and South Africa, and to continue with our friendship,” Minister Lamola stated.
The discussions also covered regional political issues, with particular attention to the situation in the eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Mozambique. Minister Lamola pledged South Africa’s support for Ambassador Shava in his role as chairperson, particularly in addressing these challenges.
Additionally, the ministers talked about economic matters, including economic integration within the region, the African Continental Free Trade Area, and the El Niño-induced drought that has affected the region.