Algiers, Pretoria Formalize Strategic Partnership with New Mechanism
Algeria and South Africa have formalized their strategic partnership through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and the establishment of a dedicated ministerial mechanism for follow-up. This development took place during a ministerial meeting in Algiers, co-chaired by Algerian Minister of State, Minister of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad, and African Affairs, Ahmed Attaf, and South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola. The meeting served as a follow-up to the outcomes of the seventh session of the High Bilateral Cooperation Committee held in December 2024, and concluded with the adoption of a joint statement.
The partnership between the two nations is rooted not only in economic interests but also in a shared history of struggle and solidarity, along with a mutual commitment to international law and the right of peoples to self-determination. These foundational principles guide their positions on international matters, including the Palestinian issue and Western Sahara. Both countries share a common responsibility to amplify Africa's voice on the international stage, advocate for reforms in global governance institutions, and ensure that the continent actively shapes its own future. Furthermore, their cooperation is geared towards promoting peace and stability across Africa, supporting political solutions, inclusive dialogue, and African-led efforts to prevent and resolve conflicts.
The focus of this enhanced cooperation extends to translating shared political understanding into closer economic ties, more effective institutional collaboration, and tangible mutual benefits. Ministers emphasized the importance of boosting bilateral trade, encouraging investments, enhancing production capacities, creating job opportunities, and facilitating technology transfer. Significant opportunities for collaboration were identified across various sectors, including energy, hydrocarbons, mining, manufacturing, agriculture, the digital economy, and innovation. Plans also include improving air and sea connectivity between Algiers and Johannesburg, alongside strengthening cooperation in maritime transport and logistics. These advancements reflect the shared vision and directives of Presidents Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Cyril Ramaphosa, with South Africa's Minister Lamola expressing his country's commitment and confirming he would report positively to his president on the progress made.
