President Bola Tinubu was warmly welcomed by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday at Tuynhuys in Cape Town, Western Cape, for the 11th Session of the Bi-National Commission between Nigeria and South Africa.
Tinubu had departed France on Monday for Cape Town to co-chair the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission alongside President Ramaphosa. The session, scheduled for Tuesday, December 3, follows a ministerial meeting held on December 2, 2024, at the South African Parliament Building in Cape Town.
Presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, in a statement released on Sunday, said that Tinubu and Ramaphosa would engage in discussions on bilateral, regional, and international matters of mutual interest.
In a post on X.com on Tuesday, President Ramaphosa reflected on the historical significance of the event, stating, “As we gather here on the occasion of the 11th session of the Bi-National Commission between our countries, we reaffirm our close bonds of friendship, solidarity, and cooperation. We are two countries united in purpose and vision.”
Ramaphosa also expressed South Africa’s deep gratitude to Nigeria for its pivotal role in the international fight against apartheid. He said, “We will remain forever grateful to Nigeria for its leading role in the international campaign to end apartheid in South Africa.”
Marking 30 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, Ramaphosa expressed optimism for the future, adding, “As we mark 30 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, we see a bright future for our relationship. Our strong bonds of friendship provide a firm foundation for more meaningful economic cooperation.”