Nigeria Requests South Africa’s Support for G20 and BRICS Membership

Nigeria has requested South Africa’s support for its membership bids in the G20 and BRICS. Minister Ojukwu emphasized collaboration for leadership roles in discussions during South Africa’s G20 presidency and urged assistance for the Sudanese peace process. South Africa’s Minister Lamola affirmed the intention to represent African interests during their G20 presidency.

On Monday, Nigeria formally requested South Africa’s support for its aspirations to attain full membership in the G20 and BRICS, as well as the BRICS New Development Bank. This appeal was articulated by Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, during her concluding remarks at the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission ministerial session held in Cape Town. She also sought South Africa’s collaboration for Nigeria to assume leadership roles in key discussions during South Africa’s presidency of the G20.

South Africa assumed the G20 presidency on December 1, which comprises the world’s wealthiest nations. The BRICS alliance, including South Africa, has been recognized for significantly contributing to global economic development, representing about 37% of the total global GDP. In her address, Minister Ojukwu reinforced Nigeria’s dedication to regional stability, urging South Africa to assist in expediting the peace process in Sudan. She emphasized that President Bola Tinubu prioritizes conflict resolution as a means to enhance regional peace and security.

Ojukwu stated, “We are dedicated to resolving the Sudan situation, and under this pretext, we request South Africa’s assistance in accelerating the peace process and ensuring that tensions in our region are de-escalated. With peace, we can aspire for better progress and development in all fields.” Furthermore, she commended the collaborative efforts of both nations’ teams in drafting and revising the joint communiqué, which will be submitted to President Tinubu of Nigeria and President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa during the presidential session on Tuesday.

Responding to Nigeria’s request, Dr. Roland Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, assured that South Africa intends to amplify Africa’s voice during its G20 presidency while expressing recognition of Nigeria’s aspirations for leadership roles.

The G20 is a significant global forum consisting of the world’s largest economies, aimed at addressing international economic issues and fostering global economic cooperation. Recently, the BRICS nations, which comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, have been increasingly influential, accounting for a considerable portion of global GDP. Nigeria’s interest in joining these organizations stems from its intention to enhance its role in international affairs and bolster economic partnerships. Furthermore, the ongoing conflict in Sudan poses challenges to regional stability, which Nigeria is keen to address with South Africa’s assistance as part of its commitment to peace in Africa.

In summary, Nigeria is actively pursuing support from South Africa to join the G20 and BRICS, seeking to strengthen its influence on the global stage. Minister Ojukwu’s appeal highlights Nigeria’s commitment to regional peace, particularly in the context of the Sudanese conflict. South Africa’s leadership in African and international discussions will be pivotal as both nations aspire for cooperative growth and development.

Original Source: newscentral.africa