Cyril Ramaphosa Commends Algeria as a Beacon of Resistance and Strategic Partner, Advocates for Deeper Bilateral Ties and Shared Leadership in Global Affairs in a Landmark Address to Parliament

BY: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | December 7th, 2024 — In an extraordinary session of the Algerian Parliament, convened specifically to honor the visit of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, the leader delivered a profoundly moving address celebrating Algeria’s unparalleled contributions to the African liberation movement. The session, held at the Palace of Nations on Friday, brought together members of both parliamentary chambers, government officials, and distinguished guests to witness an address brimming with historical resonance and calls for deeper solidarity.

President Ramaphosa lauded Algeria as a strategic ally whose sacrifices and support during South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle are indelibly etched in the annals of history. “The contribution of Algeria to the liberation of South Africa is inscribed in history,” Ramaphosa declared, underscoring the pivotal role Algeria played in providing refuge to Nelson Mandela and supporting African nations striving for independence.

A Historic Bond of Solidarity

In his address, President Ramaphosa traced the historical ties binding Algeria and South Africa, emphasizing shared struggles against colonial oppression and the enduring legacy of mutual support. “We stand on the shoulders of Algeria’s sacrifices,” Ramaphosa affirmed, recalling how the Algerian War of Independence inspired South Africa’s fight against apartheid. He highlighted the late President Ahmed Ben Bella’s steadfast belief that “support for colonized peoples is a sacred duty,” a philosophy that cemented Algeria’s unwavering commitment to anti-colonial movements.

Ramaphosa paid tribute to Algeria’s role as a haven for Nelson Mandela during the darkest days of apartheid, recounting Mandela’s profound gratitude and his famous assertion that the Algerian National Army had “made him a man.” This shared history, Ramaphosa noted, forms the bedrock of a strategic alliance transcending mere political or economic interests, fostering a partnership rooted in shared values and aspirations for a unified and emancipated Africa.

Advancing Bilateral Cooperation

The South African president used the occasion to advocate for strengthening economic and political ties between the two nations. He celebrated the recent Algeria-South Africa Economic Forum, which set the stage for expanding bilateral trade and investments in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and renewable resources.

“I see promising signs that our trade and investment relations are flourishing,” Ramaphosa said, expressing optimism about the joint exploitation of resources like green hydrogen and petroleum. He emphasized the importance of leveraging these opportunities for the mutual benefit of both nations and their peoples.

Global Advocacy and Shared Leadership

President Ramaphosa’s address extended beyond bilateral relations, calling for collaborative efforts to reform global governance structures, including the United Nations Security Council. He reiterated Algeria and South Africa’s shared vision for an equitable international order that prioritizes the rights of marginalized nations.

On the Palestinian question, Ramaphosa delivered a passionate plea for justice, decrying the ongoing “barbaric war” in Gaza. He reaffirmed that both Algeria and South Africa remain steadfast supporters of Palestinian self-determination. “Our freedom will never be complete until the Palestinians achieve theirs,” he declared, invoking Mandela’s words and pledging continued action at international forums such as the International Criminal Court.

Ramaphosa also highlighted Algeria’s unwavering support for the Sahrawi people’s right to self-determination, urging the international community to uphold its moral and legal obligations toward Western Sahara.

A Vision for the Future

As South Africa currently chairs the G20, Ramaphosa expressed his aspiration for Algeria to join the group by 2025. “We envision Algeria as a crucial voice within the G20, reflecting its growing stature on the global stage,” he stated. Ramaphosa extended an invitation to President Tebboune to participate in the next G20 summit, underscoring Algeria’s potential to contribute to shaping a more inclusive and representative global agenda.

Concluding his speech, Ramaphosa celebrated the profound bonds between the two nations. “Despite the geographical distance, Algeria feels like home,” he remarked. “Let us move forward together, hand in hand, to build a future defined by unity, progress, and the enduring flame of African solidarity.”

The resounding applause from the assembled dignitaries marked the end of a speech that not only celebrated the past but also charted an ambitious course for the future of Algeria-South Africa relations. It was a powerful testament to the enduring legacy of shared resistance and the promise of deeper collaboration in the years ahead.

 

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