SA, Britain renew bilateral partnership
With both countries having recently emerged from a shift in power after elections, both governments said it was necessary to strengthen trade ties which have stagnated in recent years.
International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola (right) met with UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy (left) in Cape Town on 5 November 2024. Picture: DIRCO/Jacoline Schoonees
CAPE TOWN - South Africa and Britain have renewed their bilateral partnership in Cape Town.
With both countries having recently emerged from a shift in power after elections, both governments said it was necessary to strengthen trade ties which have stagnated in recent years.
UK foreign secretary, David Lammy, said his government was committed to a UK-SA growth plan, which will drive economic development and deepen trade investment ties in both countries.
Lammy on Tuesday met with International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola.
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The UK foreign secretary said his visit marked a renewed chapter for both countries and a shared commitment to growth and prosperity.
Of particular interest is managing the just energy transition, science, innovation, health but also matters of security.
"I'm pleased that today we’ve agreed to deepen our collaboration on defence security, through defence staff talks and greater collaboration on counter-terrorism particularly."
International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola said South Africa was committed to a multi-lateral response to global challenges, including war.
"We also continue to call for calm and de-escalation in the Middle East, Gaza, Lebanon and the entirety of the Middle East and also in Sudan."
Lamola has pledged to remove obstacles to bilateral and regional trade and investment with Britain.