By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola on Friday hosted his counterpart, Espen Barth Eide, the Minister of Foreign Affairs for the Kingdom of Norway.
South Africa and Norway have developed a close relationship dating back to the early years of the struggle against apartheid, when Norway became an active supporter of organised resistance against the apartheid regime.
“The country’s triple challenges of unemployment, inequality, and poverty persist, and Norway’s ongoing support and cooperation to enable the country to resolve these pressing development issues is greatly appreciated, “said Lamola.
The discussions focused on bilateral trade including Norwegian investments in South Africa’s renewable energy sector, multilateral affairs, South Africa’s upcoming Presidency of the G20, and geopolitical developments, including peace and reconciliation efforts in South Sudan, Palestine and Ukraine.
“We welcome Norway’s commitment to collaborate with us as we forge ahead with efforts to promote peace and security on the continent and advance regional and continental integration,” the Lamola said.
According to Lamola, South Africa also seeks partners to promote peace and reconstruction on the continent through various cooperation mechanisms, not in the form of aid but in a way that substantively enables Africa to leverage its rich endowment.
“In a manner which helps Africa live up to the aspiration, we sing about the African Union anthem, the clarion call to make Africa the tree of life.”
“Our engagement allows us to review the current state of our bilateral political and economic relations and unlock challenges and opportunities where they may exist.”
He said their talks also afford them valuable opportunities for reflection and an honest exchange of views to deepen common understanding of regional, multilateral, and global issues of mutual concern and interest.
The Minister is of the view that Norway stands as a “beacon of unwavering friendship” to South Africans.
“It is among one of the few nations that extended a hand to host missions from the African National Congress (ANC) during our most trying times under apartheid rule.”
He expressed his appreciation to the Scandinavian country for supporting South Africa’s liberation struggle from apartheid and said both countries were united by shared values of democracy, respect for human rights, and social justice.