Deputy President Paul Mashatile of South Africa warmly received Colombian Vice President Francia Elena Márquez during her official visit to the country. This historic meeting marked the first high-level engagement between the two nations since the establishment of diplomatic relations, signifying a significant milestone in their bilateral relationship.
Women Leaders in Politics: Highlighting shared values
The meeting between Mashatile and Márquez highlights the growing importance of women leaders in politics. Both nations aim to strengthen their ties based on shared values such as democracy, the rule of law, sustainable development, and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Pragmatic Cooperation: A roadmap for Bilateral Collaboration
The two leaders discussed the potential for pragmatic cooperation in various fields, including agribusiness, defense, environment, mining, energy, science and innovation, sports, arts and culture, trade and economic relations, tourism, and transport. This roadmap for bilateral collaboration aims to address the national development priorities of both countries and foster mutually beneficial relations.
Shared Commitments to Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063
A significant aspect of the talks was the focus on shared commitments to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063. South Africa lauded Colombia’s efforts to reactivate relations with the African continent and its commitment to contribute to the success of Agenda 2063. This collaborative approach seeks to advance peace, security, and development in Africa, with the ultimate goal of creating a continent free from war and conflict.
Strengthening Resolve in Advancing the Development Agenda
Deputy President Mashatile expressed his deep appreciation for the Colombian delegation, led by Vice President Márquez, and their joint efforts to chart a path for bilateral and multilateral cooperation between the two countries. As progressive nations of the Global South, South Africa and Colombia are uniquely positioned to strengthen their resolve in advancing the development agenda and pursuing global governance reforms.
A New Chapter in Bilateral Relations
The official visit by Colombian Vice President Francia Elena Márquez and the subsequent talks with South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile serve as a testament to the growing potential of South Africa-Colombia relations. As both countries continue to deepen their ties through pragmatic cooperation and shared commitments to sustainable development, a new chapter in their bilateral relations is undoubtedly being forged. This partnership between South Africa and Colombia has the potential to address pressing global challenges and create opportunities for cooperation in various sectors, leading to economic growth and improved living standards for their citizens.
