Ministerial Meeting in Swakopmund: Solidarity with Cuba…

Namibia and South Africa’s Foreign Ministers met to express support for Cuba and Venezuela against unilateral sanctions, condemned Israeli actions in Lebanon, called for the end of sanctions on Zimbabwe, and discussed the Western Sahara situation, highlighting international law violations.

During a recent ministerial meeting held in Swakopmund, Namibia, on October 14 and 15, led by Foreign Ministers Peya Mushelenga of Namibia and Ronald Ozzy Lamola of South Africa, both nations reaffirmed their support for Cuba and Venezuela. This solidarity comes in light of the significant economic challenges these Latin American countries face, which they attribute in part to unilateral sanctions. The ministers specifically condemned the long-standing economic, financial, and commercial blockade imposed on Cuba by the United States, calling for an end to this restrictive policy, active for over six decades. In addition, the meeting addressed the serious humanitarian situation caused by Israeli bombings in Lebanon, which participants deemed as violations of sovereignty and international humanitarian norms. The ministers urged the international community and the United Nations Security Council to reinforce adherence to international law. Moreover, the representatives voiced concern over the sanctions levied against Zimbabwe, calling for their immediate and unconditional removal, highlighting the detrimental impact these sanctions have on the socioeconomic development of Zimbabwe and the wider Southern African region. Further discussions at the ministerial meeting included the situation in Western Sahara, where the parties expressed support for a recent ruling by the Court of Justice of the European Union (CJEU) dated October 4, 2024, which concluded that the European Commission had violated the right to self-determination of the Sahrawi people.

The current geopolitical climate has seen increased tensions regarding the imposition of sanctions, particularly by Western nations, which many developing countries claim disrupt their economic stability and self-determination. In this context, South Africa and Namibia’s recent meeting signals their commitment to supporting countries like Cuba and Venezuela, which are enduring extensive economic difficulties as a result of such sanctions. The call to end the blockade on Cuba and the condemnation of Israeli actions in Lebanon also reflect broader concerns regarding international law and human rights. Furthermore, the situation in Zimbabwe emphasizes the regional implications of sanctions on economic growth and stability in Southern Africa.

In conclusion, the ministerial meeting in Swakopmund serves as a critical platform for Namibia and South Africa to reaffirm their solidarity with Cuba and Venezuela while addressing broader issues of international law violations and the removal of sanctions that impede regional development. By articulating their position on these matters, both nations demonstrate their commitment to fostering a more equitable global framework that respects the sovereignty and rights of all nations.

Original Source: www.plenglish.com