Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola met on September 26, 2024, to discuss the ongoing partnership between their respective countries.
Blinken began by expressing gratitude for the meeting, highlighting the importance of the partnership between South Africa and the United States. He noted that this relationship operates on bilateral, regional, and global levels. "I think it’s an important moment to take stock of the extraordinary and important partnership between South Africa and the United States," Blinken said. He also mentioned recent significant conversations between their teams.
Looking ahead, Blinken expressed anticipation for future strategic dialogues and collaboration in leadership roles within the G20. "We will be in effect serving together at leadership of the G20 as South Africa takes over next year," he stated. He emphasized the potential for progress on various issues beneficial to both nations' citizens.
Minister Lamola reciprocated Blinken's sentiments, expressing his pleasure at continuing to strengthen bilateral relations. "We are also very glad as South Africa that we could find time to meet with yourself to continue to strengthen the bilateral relations between the two countries," Lamola said. He acknowledged South Africa's 30 years of democracy, shared values with the United States, and recent political developments aimed at addressing unemployment, inequality, and poverty.
Lamola further outlined South Africa's foreign policy principles focused on human rights, constitutional principles, national interest, solidarity, peaceful conflict resolution, and achieving Africa Agenda 2063. He emphasized engagements between the Global South and Global North while looking forward to enhancing economic trade relations with the United States.
"Thank you very much," concluded Lamola.
