Speaker Boughali Meets South Africa’s ANC Secretary: Towards New Diplomatic Horizons
BY: Dr. Hana Saada
ALGIERS- Brahim Boughali, the Speaker of the People’s National Assembly (APN), met with the Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC) of the Republic of South Africa, Fikile Mbalula, at the APN headquarters on Sunday.
The high-level meeting took place in the presence of Riad Hannachi, the President of the Parliamentary Friendship Group “Algeria-South Africa,” Ahmed Boubekeur, the President of the Committee on Legal, Administrative, and Freedom Affairs, and Samir Bacha, the representative of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Community Abroad, according to a statement from the APN.
Boughali emphasized the strong ties between Algeria and South Africa, characterized by values of solidarity, friendship, and cooperation. He highlighted “the importance of these relations, especially regarding crucial issues related to security, peace, and the liberation of Africa from colonialism and dependence.”
The Speaker of the APN stressed “the need to address the challenges facing Africa, particularly in terms of security, food, energy, and climate,” emphasizing “the importance of working together to achieve sustainable development and prosperity for African peoples.”
On the parliamentary level, Brahim Boughali announced the readiness of the Algerian Parliament to “strengthen bilateral relations by sharing experiences and facilitating the exchange of parliamentary delegations.” He highlighted “the creation of a parliamentary friendship group with South Africa as a significant step to consolidate these ties.”
Internationally, the parliamentary leader acknowledged the convergence of positions between Algeria and South Africa on regional and international issues of common interest. He particularly emphasized “the need to support the right of the Sahrawi people to self-determination, in accordance with the decisions of the African Union and the United Nations.”
In his address, the Secretary-General of the ANC reaffirmed “South Africa’s commitment to strengthening parliamentary cooperation.” He emphasized “the importance of revitalizing parliamentary friendship committees and opening channels of dialogue to strengthen collaboration.”
Mbalula also expressed “South Africa’s unconditional support for just causes worldwide, such as the issue of Western Sahara and the Palestinian question.” He condemned the actions of the Zionist occupation against the Palestinian people and recalled “his country’s opposition to the Zionist regime’s request for observer status in the African Union.”
Regarding Western Sahara, the South African official announced that his country had decided to “establish diplomatic relations with the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic,” reaffirming “his country’s willingness to actively work to enable the Sahrawi people to determine their own destiny.”
Strengthening Algerian-South African Relations: A Historical Overview
The diplomatic ties between Algeria and South Africa have a profound historical foundation, rooted in a shared commitment to global peace, justice, and common regional interests. This enduring relationship has been exemplified by the pivotal roles both nations have played in championing African causes and pursuing collaborative initiatives.
Algeria’s unwavering support for South Africa, particularly during the era of apartheid, reflects a deep solidarity. Iconic leaders like Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu, Oliver Tambo, and Miriam Makeba found support and camaraderie in Algeria, where Mandela even received military training from the Algerian National Liberation Army.
The expulsion of apartheid South Africa from the United Nations General Assembly in 1974 stands out as a testament to Algeria’s commitment to justice. This move, led by then-Minister of Foreign Affairs the late Abdelaziz Bouteflika, showcased Algeria’s dedication to supporting oppressed nations.
In the post-apartheid era, the relationship evolved into a strategic partnership. The Algerian-South African High Binational Commission for Cooperation (HCBNC), established in 2000, has been instrumental in fostering cooperation across various sectors. The bilateral cooperation has not only been confined to political dialogue but has also seen the signing of numerous agreements, promoting collaboration in science, technology, and cultural exchanges.
Former President Jacob Zuma’s visit to Algeria in 2015 marked a crucial milestone in evaluating progress and identifying new areas for collaboration. Both nations affirmed the need to elevate economic cooperation and deepen ties in science and technology.
On the regional front, Algeria and South Africa have emerged as leading advocates for Africa’s interests and principles. Their joint efforts in establishing mechanisms like the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD) and participating in initiatives such as “Amani Africa II” underscore their commitment to a unified, peaceful, and prosperous Africa.
In a recent diplomatic development, the joint efforts of Algeria and South Africa, supported by like-minded nations, resulted in the suspension of the Zionist entity’s observer status in the African Union. This diplomatic achievement, occurring during the 35th African Union Summit, reflects the nations’ dedication to principles of justice and solidarity.
As Algeria and South Africa continue to strengthen their ties, the historical context, shared values, and collaborative initiatives serve as a foundation for a future marked by unity, prosperity, and mutual respect.
