SA’s SADC chairship to prioritise peace, economic growth: Lamola
Lamola says there can be no business as usual as the region responds to its growing population.
South African International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has outlined the key priorities for South Africa's upcoming chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Speaking at the SADC Council of Ministers meeting in Durban, Lamola emphasized that the region's growing population and evolving economic landscape necessitate a strategic shift away from business as usual.
The chairmanship will place a strong emphasis on promoting peace, security, and stability across the region. Lamola stressed that the security of any single member state is inextricably linked to the overall stability of the entire SADC. He underscored that South Africa has a responsibility to ensure that economic growth and job creation keep pace with the region's expanding population.
Key strategic priorities under Lamola's leadership include:
1. Fostering peace and security through regional solidarity and collective response to threats and challenges.
2. Accelerating industrialization by focusing on agricultural transformation, critical mineral processing, boosting regional trade, and enhancing regional benefits.
Lamola's call for renewed focus and coordinated action comes as the SADC Council of Ministers meeting takes place at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban.
Written by urgent.news from SABC News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
