South Africa and oil-rich Equatorial Guinea have agreed to strengthen their political, diplomatic and economic relations for the benefit of their people, the presidency said on Wednesday.
These resolutions were announced at the conclusion of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s day-long visit to Equatorial Guinea on Tuesday where he held talks with host President Obiang Nguema Mbasongo in Malabo, the high office said.
The two countries, currently serving as non-permanent members of the UN Security Council, also committed to promoting peace, security and sustainable development on the continent by advocating the African Union’s Agenda 2063, the presidency said.
They further agreed on the need to strengthen South-South cooperation, and inter-African cooperation in particular, according to the president’s office.
Ramaphosa was accompanied to Malabo by International Relations and Cooperation Minister Lindiwe Sisulu and Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.
During the visit, the two leaders witnessed the signing of the Rules of Procedure for a Joint Permanent Commission which they have set up since their cordial relations were formally established in 1993.
The two countries have since entered into a number of bilateral cooperation agreements, including a General Cooperation Agreement and two agreements on defence cooperation.
The two countries are also formulating draft agreements to enhance cooperation in education and energy, the presidency said.
NM/jn/APA