David Lammy Commits to Building Respectful Partnerships During First Visit to Africa

David Lammy, during his first visit as Foreign Secretary, pledged to create respectful partnerships with African nations, beginning with a strategic partnership with Nigeria, followed by discussions in South Africa. He emphasized the continent’s growth potential and a government focus on long-term economic development and collaboration.

David Lammy, on his inaugural visit to Africa as Foreign Secretary, has committed to cultivating “respectful partnerships” with African nations. His journey commenced with a planned signing of a new “strategic partnership” with Nigeria, followed by a visit to South Africa. This initiative is characterized by a renewed strategy that emphasizes cooperation between the UK and African countries, ranging from Morocco to Madagascar. In his address, Mr. Lammy articulated, “Africa has huge growth potential, with the continent on track to make up 25% of the world’s population by 2050.” He expressed his desire to understand the needs of African partners, ensuring that UK relations are not only about providing solutions but also about long-term, mutually beneficial growth. This partnership with Nigeria will address issues such as economic development, national security, and climate change. Mr. Lammy is scheduled to engage with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu to explore avenues for enhanced trade and climate initiatives. In South Africa, he plans to meet with Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola to advance the development of a UK-South Africa Growth Plan. He reiterated that the government’s focus is on growth, which he believes will generate more jobs and prosperity for both Britons and Africans. He underscored the importance of resetting relations with the Global South, amidst increasing international involvement from nations like Russia and China.

The article discusses David Lammy’s first official visit to Africa as the UK’s Foreign Secretary, during which he aims to establish new partnerships focused on growth and collaboration. The emphasis is on fostering relationships with African nations that prioritize understanding their needs and long-term prosperity. The timing of the visit is significant given the increasing interest from other global powers, such as Russia and China, actively engaging with Africa.

In conclusion, David Lammy’s visit signifies a strategic pivot towards deepening UK relations with Africa through respectful partnerships that prioritize growth and cooperation. His engagements with both Nigeria and South Africa are set to enhance bilateral ties that address critical issues like economic development and climate change, thereby aligning with the government’s overarching mission for sustainable growth and prosperity for all involved.

Original Source: www.standard.co.uk