Namibia and South Africa Stand in Support of Cuba and Venezuela Amid Sanctions Challenges

Namibia and South Africa have voiced their support for Cuba and Venezuela during a ministerial meeting in Swakopmund, Namibia, condemning the ongoing economic sanctions against these nations. The discussions also included condemnation of Israel’s actions in Lebanon, a call for lifting sanctions on Zimbabwe, and commentary on the situation in Western Sahara, highlighting the importance of self-determination rights.

During a recent ministerial event in Swakopmund, Namibia, on October 14 and 15, the Foreign Ministers of Namibia and South Africa, Peya Mushelenga and Ronald Ozzy Lamola, respectively, expressed their solidarity with Cuba and Venezuela as both nations navigate through severe economic challenges intensified by unilateral sanctions. The ministers highlighted the longstanding embargo imposed on Cuba by the United States, advocating for its cessation after over sixty years of detrimental impact on the island’s economy. Furthermore, the discussions condemned Israel’s military actions in Lebanon, labeling them as infringements of sovereignty and violations of international humanitarian law. The ministers implored the international community, along with the United Nations Security Council, to actively uphold international law. Additionally, Namibia and South Africa called for the immediate and unconditional lifting of sanctions against Zimbabwe, noting that these measures adversely influence the socioeconomic conditions of Zimbabwe and the broader Southern African region. The meeting also addressed the situation in Western Sahara and praised the European Court of Justice’s ruling on October 4, 2024, which affirmed the violation of the self-determination rights of the Western Sahara people by the European Commission.

The recent ministerial event underscored the strong diplomatic ties between Namibia and South Africa and their collective stance on global issues, particularly those concerning Latin America and the African continent. The economic sanctions imposed on Cuba and Venezuela have been a point of contention globally, as nations weigh the implications such measures have on sovereignty and development. Both Namibia and South Africa have positioned themselves as advocates for decolonization and self-determination, aligning their foreign policies accordingly. The call to address sanctions against Zimbabwe reflects a regional commitment to stability and growth in Southern Africa, while the discussions on Western Sahara indicate ongoing support for international law and the rights of oppressed peoples.

In summary, the recent gathering in Swakopmund highlighted the commitment of Namibia and South Africa to support Cuba and Venezuela in light of ongoing economic challenges due to sanctions. The ministers addressed pressing issues such as military conflicts affecting sovereignty, the necessity of lifting economic sanctions in the region, and reaffirmed their dedication to the principle of self-determination for peoples in disputed territories. Their collective declarations serve as a reaffirmation of the need for international cooperation and adherence to humanitarian principles.

Original Source: www.plenglish.com