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BRICS partnership is a catalyst for global growth
President Cyril Ramaphosa says the BRICS partnership is a catalyst for global growth and development that responds to the needs of all nations.
“It is the right of Africa and the entire Global South to fully reap the benefits of global trade and investment. Without trade and investment our economies cannot thrive and our peoples’ material conditions cannot improve,” Ramaphosa said.
Ramaphosa was speaking at the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue, held on the last day of the 15th BRICS Summit on Thursday.
“As the African continent we are determined that the continent’s substantial resources are harnessed for the benefit and development of Africa’s people. The African Continental Free Trade Area, once fully operational, will unlock the benefits of the continental market and generate substantial opportunities for African and other countries,” he said.
To make use of these opportunities, Africa is looking to the BRICS partnership to unlock infrastructure and development financing, noting this was part of the founding vision of the New Development Bank.
He said the Bank is playing a leading role in efforts to increase the resilience of the global South, and to bring fairness to global trading and financial systems by strengthening the use of BRICS currencies.
“We have to reform global economic, financial and political governance, including the multilateral trading system, so that we create a conducive environment for fair trade.”
While many countries of the global South are seeing significant progress in industrialisation, technological development, innovation and the digital economy, they are not fully reaping the economic benefits.
“By working together, by sharing skills and capabilities, by mobilising resources, we will be able to give renewed impetus to global growth and sustainable development. We need to move beyond expressions of solidarity towards inclusion and mutually-beneficial economic cooperation,” President Ramaphosa said.
Call for special attention to global South concerns
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi commended President Ramaphosa for hosting a success summit, noting the summit has given them the opportunity to share views with countries of Africa, Asia and Latin America.
Modi said that in discussions over the last two days, members have emphasised the priorities and concerns of countries in the global South.
“We believe that by calling special attention to these issues by BRICS, is a need of these current times. .. And we welcome all the new member countries [and] this will make global institutions and forums more representative and inclusive, a step towards such efforts of ours.
“When we use the term global South, it is not just a new diplomatic term. In our shared history we have together faced colonialism, [and] it was in this land of Africa that Mahatma Gandhi developed a powerful concept of non-violence and peaceful resistance, tested here and then used them in India’s struggle for freedom. His thinking and ideas inspired great leaders like Nelson Mandela,” Modi said.
Republic of Brazil President, Lula da Silva, said he was very impressed with the maturity of the BRICS Summit, and the results they managed to reach.
“The GDP [gross domestic product] of the BRICS is growing up to 37% of the GDP in terms of the purchasing power and 46% in terms of the world population,” da Silva said.
He also commended the team from the Foreign Affairs Ministers for the extraordinary work they did to conduct the declaration of Johannesburg which was signed on Thursday, adding that BRICS will continue to open to new members and also approve criteria procedures for future members.
Rebuilding of a new multi-polar world order
Russian President, Vladimir Putin also commended South Africa for the efforts made during their joint work.
Putin said BRICS stand for rebuilding of a new multi-polar world order, one that is “truly balanced and takes interest in as many nations as possible.”
He said Russia will always remain a reliable food supplier and continue to support countries who are most in need.
“We will promote the overcoming of all ways of inequality that exists in the world, and BRICS will continue to be the driving force of the new international order," Putin said. – SAnews.gov.za
GabiK
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 13:39
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Rich countries urged to honour $100-billion climate finance goal
United Nations (UN) Secretary-General, António Guterres, has urged developed countries to keep their promises to developing nations by meeting the climate finance commitment of US$100 billion.
This is after rich nations made a pledge in 2009 to the less wealthy countries at a UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen, Denmark, to assist them in adapting to climate change and alleviate rises in temperature by 2020.
Guterres also called on the wealthy nations to double adaptation finance, replenish the Green Climate Fund, and operationalise the loss and damage fund this year.
“As a matter of justice, Africa must be considered a priority in all these efforts,” he stressed.
He delivered the remarks at the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue, which was held during the 15th BRICS Summit at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg.
Guterres said the climate crisis was spiralling out of control and urged world leaders to step up their efforts to tackle it.
“I have put forward a Climate Solidarity Pact in which developed countries provide financial and technical support to help emerging economies – in Africa and beyond – to promote an equitable and just transition to renewable energy.”
He told delegates that he presented an Acceleration Agenda, which aims to see developed countries committing to reach net zero by 2040 and developing nations as close as possible to 2050.
The Secretary-General also touched on the crisis of cost of living.
He stated that poverty, hunger, and inequalities are growing against the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development’s objectives.
“Geopolitical divides and conflicts are multiplying with profound global implications, especially the impacts from the Russian invasion of Ukraine.”
Multipolar world
While nations were eyeing a multipolar world, he said multipolarity was not enough to guarantee a peaceful or global community.
“To be a factor of peace, equity, and justice in international relations, multipolarity must be supported by strong and effective multilateral institutions.”
Guterres is advocating for a strengthened and reformed multilateral architecture based on the UN Charter and international law.
“Today’s global governance structures reflect yesterday’s world. They were largely created in the aftermath of World War II when many African countries were still ruled by colonial powers and were not even at the table.
“This is particularly true of the Security Council of the United Nations and the Bretton Woods institutions.”
For multilateral institutions to remain universal, he said they must reform to reflect today’s power and economic realities.
“In the absence of such reform –– fragmentation is inevitable.”
Cooperation
Guterres said the world cannot afford a divided global economy and financial system, diverging strategies on technology, and conflicting security frameworks.
“The IMF [International Monetary Fund] estimates that such a fracture could cost 7% of global GDP [gross domestic product] – a cost that would be disproportionately borne by low-income countries, mainly in Africa.
“And so I have come to Johannesburg with a simple message, in a fracturing world with overwhelming crises, there is simply no alternative to cooperation.”
He advised leaders to urgently restore trust and reinvigorate multilateralism for the 21st century.
“This requires the courage to compromise in the reforms necessary for the common good.
“It requires full respect for the UN Charter, international law, universal values, and all human rights – social, cultural, economic, civil, and political. And it requires much greater solidarity,” he stressed, admitting that none of this was easy.
“But it is essential. And is essential, especially for Africa.”
He acknowledged that Africa, a historical victim of slavery and colonialism, continues to confront grave injustices.
“On average, African countries pay four times more for borrowing than the United States and eight times more than the wealthiest European countries.”
Guterres also noted that African states account for just 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, but are an epicentre of climate chaos.
“Looking ahead, I see two priorities for action and justice. First, on the economic front. Redesigning today’s outdated, dysfunctional, and unfair global financial architecture is necessary, but I know it won’t happen overnight. Yet we can – and must – take practical action now.”
He has since proposed an effective debt workout mechanism, and other steps necessary to multiply the resources available for developing countries are vital for sustainable development in Africa and its people. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 13:42
But the controversial Mayco Member received a standing ovation from DA members for his handling of the taxi strike
From Awkward Beginnings to Cinematic Brilliance: How Vlogging Went From Family Fun To A World Of Content Creation For many of us, there is a good chance that the first vlogger we ever met was long before the YouTube era. It was probably an uncle or maybe even an older sister. Whoever it was, the …
BRICS adopts Johannesburg II Declaration
The 15th BRICS Summit has successfully adopted the Johannesburg II Declaration, a document that encapsulates significant BRICS viewpoints on matters of global economic, financial and political significance.
This was announced by the Chair of BRICS President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday during a media briefing to announce the outcomes of the XV BRICS Summit.
“We adopted the Johannesburg II Declaration which reflects key BRICS messages on matters of global economic, financial and political importance. It demonstrates the shared values and common interests that underlie our mutually beneficial cooperation as the five BRICS countries.
“BRICS itself is a diverse group of nations. It is an equal partnership of countries that have differing views but have a shared vision for a better world,” the President said.
The leaders of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa met in Sandton, Johannesburg, from 22 to 24 August 2023 for the XV BRICS Summit.
The Summit was held under the theme: "BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism".
This is the first BRICS Summit to be hosted in-person since the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global travel restrictions.
The BRICS leaders have reaffirmed their commitment to the BRICS spirit of mutual respect and understanding, sovereign equality, solidarity, democracy, openness, inclusiveness, strengthened collaboration and consensus.
As the bloc builds upon 15 years of BRICS Summits, it further committed to strengthening the framework of mutually beneficial BRICS cooperation under the three pillars of political and security, economic and financial, and cultural and people-to-people cooperation.
Partnership for Inclusive Multilateralism
The bloc has also committed to enhance its strategic partnership for the benefit of its people through the promotion of peace, a more representative, fairer international order, a reinvigorated and reformed multilateral system, sustainable development and inclusive growth.
“We reiterate our commitment to inclusive multilateralism and upholding international law, including the purposes and principles enshrined in the Charter of the United Nations (UN) as its indispensable cornerstone,” President Ramaphosa said.
The BRICS leaders expressed their concern about the use of unilateral coercive measures, which are incompatible with the principles of the Charter of the UN and produce negative effects notably in the developing world.
“We reiterate our commitment to enhancing and improving global governance by promoting a more agile, effective, efficient, representative, democratic and accountable international and multilateral system.
“We call for greater representation of emerging markets and developing countries, in international organizations and multilateral fora in which they play an important role. We also call for increasing the role and share of women from EMDCs at different levels of responsibilities in the international organizations,” the Declaration read.
Local currencies
The BRICS leaders emphasised that they are ready to explore opportunities for improving the stability, reliability and fairness of the global financial architecture.
In the declaration, the leaders said they recognise the widespread benefits of fast, inexpensive, transparent, safe, and inclusive payment systems.
Therefore the Summit agreed to task the BRICS Finance Ministers and/or Central Bank Governors, as appropriate, to consider the issue of local currencies, payment instruments and platforms and report back to the BRICS leaders by the next Summit.
“We look forward to the report by the BRICS Payment Task Force (BPTF) on the mapping of the various elements of the G20 Roadmap on Crossborder Payments in BRICS countries. We welcome the sharing of experience by BRICS members on payment infrastructures, including the interlinking of cross-border payment systems.
“We also encourage strengthening of correspondent banking networks between the BRICS countries and enabling settlements in the local currencies. We task our Finance Ministers and/or Central Bank Governors, as appropriate, to consider the issue of local currencies, payment instruments and platforms,” the leaders said.
New Development Bank (NDB)
The summit further recognised the key role of the New Development Bank (NDB) in promoting infrastructure and sustainable development of its member countries.
The Summit congratulated Dilma Rousseff, former President of the Federative Republic of Brazil, as President of the New Development Bank (NDB) and are confident that she will contribute to the strengthening of the NDB in effectively achieving its mandate.
“We expect the NDB to provide and maintain the most effective financing solutions for sustainable development, a steady process in membership expansion, and improvements in corporate governance and operational effectiveness towards the fulfilment of NDB's General Strategy for 2022-2026,” the leaders said.
The leaders further welcomed the work of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance in their first in-person engagement with leaders, particularly welcoming the participation of youth representatives in the Summit.
They further addressed expectations for the BRICS economic partnership to generate tangible benefits for communities and deliver viable solutions for common challenges faced by the global South.
The Summit further reaffirmed the importance of BRICS people-to-people exchanges in enhancing mutual understanding, friendship and cooperation.
Brazil, Russia, India and China commend South Africa's BRICS Chairship in 2023 and expressed their gratitude to the government and people of South Africa for holding the XV BRICS Summit.
The bloc further extended its full support to Russia for its BRICS Chairship in 2024 and the holding of the XVI BRICS Summit in the city of Kazan, Russia. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 12:39
BRICS Heads of State welcome 'historic' bloc expansion
The Heads of State of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) have welcomed the historic expansion of the bloc to include six new developing countries.
President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Thursday that Argentina, Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates will join BRICS as of the start of 2024.
This is after over 20 countries formally applied to join BRICS and several others have expressed an interest in becoming part of the bloc.
“As the five BRICS countries, we have reached an agreement on the guiding principles, standards, criteria and procedures of the BRICS expansion process, which has been under discussion for quite a while. We have consensus on the first phase of this expansion process, and further phases will follow,” President Ramaphosa, who is also Chair of BRICS, announced.
The BRICS Summit is underway at the Sandton Convention Centre led by bloc leaders of emerging economies – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
The Heads of State took to the podium on Thursday to talk about the outcomes of the 15th BRICS Summit held in Sandton, Johannesburg, this week and welcomed the new members.
India Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was pleased that the summit had many positive outcomes.
“On the 15th anniversary of BRICS, we have taken an important decision to expand it,” he said, adding that India has always supported the expansion of the bloc’s membership.
India, the Prime Minister said, has always been of the view that the addition of new members will further strengthen the organisation and will bring a new stimulus.
“This will also strengthen the belief of many countries of the world in a multi-polar world order.”
He expressed his satisfaction that the team agreed on the guiding principles, standards, criteria and procedure of the expansion.
Prime Minister Modi has since conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to the leaders and people of the six new nations.
“I am confident that together with these countries, we will be able to infuse new momentum and energy into our cooperation.
“India has had very deep and historic relations with all of these countries, with the help of BRICS, new dimensions will be added to our bilateral cooperation.”
He also had a message to the countries who have also expressed interest and said India will contribute towards building a consensus for them to be a part of BRICS countries.
“The expansion and modernisation of BRICS is a message that all institutions in the world need to hold themselves according to changing times.
“This can be an example for reforms and other global institutions that were established in the 20th century,” he stressed.
Meanwhile, Chinese President Xi Jinping described the BRICS countries as nations with influence and shoulder important responsibility for world peace and development.
“During the summit, we’ve reached broad consensus, adopted a declaration and achieved fruitful outcomes.”
He said the Heads of State have unanimously agreed to invite the other countries as official members.
“China congratulates these states and highly appreciates the efforts made by our chair South Africa and President Ramaphosa.”
He described the expansion as historic and said it shows the determination of BRICS countries for unity and cooperation with the broader developing countries.
“The expansion is also a new starting point for BRICS cooperation.”
President Xi believes it will also bring new vigour to the BRICS cooperation mechanism and further strengthen the force for world peace and development.
“I’m confident that as long as we work with a common purpose there’s a lot that BRICS cooperation can achieve and the future will be bright for BRICS countries.”
“Let’s work together to write a new chapter of emerging market countries and developing countries working together in unity for development.”
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva also welcomed the new members.
Da Silva noted the BRICS’ Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will now shoot up to 37% of the world’s GDP in terms of purchasing power and 47% of the global population.
“BRICS will continue to be open to new members,” he added.
Russian President Vladimir Putin also welcomed the new members.
“Let me assure all the colleagues that we will keep up with the work we have launched to expand BRICS influence in the world.”
He said the BRICS Heads of State will proceed with the smooth work they have done and look at ways to best coordinate the expansion. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 11:57
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Midrand, 24 August 2023 – Stellantis brands are getting ready to engage with visitors at this year’s Festival of Motoring (FOM), which takes place at the Kyalami Grand Prix circuit this Friday 25 August 2023. One of South Africa’s largest importers and global automotive giant is pulling out all the stops to wow visitors to …
Dear Editor Following a sustained campaign by the Democratic Alliance (DA), in which we repeatedly called for an independent forensic investigation into maladministration within the Independent Development Trust (IDT), the IDT Board has announced that it has taken a resolution to commission two forensic investigations which will be conducted by National Treasury with the support …
Dear Editor Today, the DA has submitted a request, in terms of the Promotion of Access to Information Act (PAIA) for the South African Reserve Bank (SARB) to release the report on their investigation into allegations that President Ramaphosa contravened Exchange Control Regulations. In its media release on 21 August, the SARB stated that it …
BRICS: Six new countries join the bloc
The much-anticipated expansion of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) bloc has gained momentum with the current members having collectively decided to extend invitations to six countries to become full members, effective from January 2024.
“As the five BRICS countries, we have reached agreement on the guiding principles, standards, criteria and procedures of the BRICS expansion process, which has been under discussion for quite a while. We have consensus on the first phase of this expansion process, and further phases will follow.
“We have decided to invite the Argentine Republic, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to become full members of BRICS. The membership will take effect from 1 January 2024,” President Cyril Ramaphosa said.
President Ramaphosa said this in his capacity as Chair of BRICS and President of the Republic of South Africa during a media briefing to announce the outcomes of the XV BRICS Summit held at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg on Thursday.
The debate over the expansion of BRICS topped the agenda at the three-day summit where the leaders of the emerging economies held meetings.
This announcement is expected to propel the group towards increased global influence in world relations as it already represents more than 40% of the world’s population (at least 3 billion people) and some 31% of the global GDP.
President Ramaphosa expressed that the bloc values the interest of other countries in building a partnership with BRICS.
He also announced that the leaders have tasked their respective Foreign Ministers to further develop the BRICS partner country model and a list of prospective partner countries and report by the next Summit.
BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue
The Heads of State will later today host leaders from Africa and the Global South in the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue.
President Ramaphosa said this is aimed at having an inclusive dialogue on key issues affecting developing economies.
“This is so that we can have an inclusive dialogue on key issues affecting developing economies and identify actions that we can take together towards a more equitable, inclusive and representative world,” he said.
The President concluded by thanking the leaders of Brazil, Russia, India and China, together with their delegations, for participating in the “most successful” 15th BRICS Summit.
Through this Summit, he said, BRICS has embarked on a new chapter in its effort to build a world that is fair; a world that is just; a world that is also inclusive and prosperous. – SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Thu, 08/24/2023 - 10:53
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OUTA engaged with the RTIA after having received complaints that the traffic authorities are using old fines to issue enforcement orders and demand payment before allowing licence renewals The Organisation Undoing Tax Abuse (OUTA) has received numerous complaints from motorists who have found there are enforcement orders issued against them for old traffic fines, preventing …
But only after spending nearly three years in prison
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Hundreds protest in Sandton where summit is underway
BRICS diversity is its greatest strength
President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised that the BRICS group of countries which are united by their common vision and goals incorporates peoples, cultures and traditions of more than three billion people across the world.
“We are united by our common vision and common goals. Our diversity is our greatest strength, and tonight you will get to experience the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions and foods of South Africa,” he said.
The President was speaking on Wednesday on the occasion of the Cultural performance and State Banquet of the XV BRICS Summit that took place at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Midrand, Johannesburg.
In a celebration of unity, diversity and shared progress, several Heads of State and Government were treated to a formal dinner orchestrated by renowned culinary expert Wandile Mabaso. Mabaso, a globally acclaimed chef, skillfully combines traditional French methods with the delightful tastes of South Africa.
Mabaso was joined by Xolani Mancotywa, a qualified beverage steward and chef who has reimagined traditional African cuisine and authentic African fine dining.
The dignitaries were treated to performances which included a choreography by Gregory Maqoma, inspirational dance by Musa Motha and renowned opera singer Pretty Yende.
The President extended his gratitude to the Heads of State for accepting his invitation as they celebrate being together on a night which he trust they will find joyful and pleasant.
“It is also a night when we thank you for joining the BRICS countries prior to tomorrow’s BRICS Outreach programme.
“We hope that this evening you will experience South Africa's story, one that interweaves our many different cultures, traditions and languages as the foundation of an inclusive nation.
“It is a story that reflects the nature and purpose of BRICS, which values partnership and cooperation in a spirit of openness and solidarity,” the President said.
Ahead of the BRICS-Africa Outreach and BRICS Plus Dialogue on Thursday, the President told the dignitaries that they will all tomorrow articulate how they will foster change in the world for the benefit of all the peoples of the world.
The President highlighted to the leaders that they have more reason to celebrate as BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India and South Africa) partners following India making history as the first country to successfully land a lunar module on the south pole of the moon.
“We congratulate Prime Minister [Narendra] Modi, the government and people of India and the Indian Space Research Organisation on the success of the Chandraayan-3 mission. Pushing forward the frontiers of scientific endeavour is integral to human progress.
“In anticipation of this great achievement Prime Minister Modi proposed at our BRICS Summit this afternoon that BRICS should set up a Space Exploration Commission where, as BRICS countries, we can share knowledge and experiences,” he said.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that the more they learn about this world they live in and beyond, the greater their capacity to improve it and to elevate the human condition.
He said that this and many other achievements enable the countries to move forward to prosperity, progress and to peace. - SAnews.gov.za
DikelediM
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 21:56
Government pays tribute to veteran journalist, Derek Watts
Government has sent condolences on the passing of one of the nation's most esteemed and respected journalists, Derek Watts.
The 74-year-old veteran Carte Blanche TV presenter, known for his exceptional investigative journalism skills, died on Tuesday after battling cancer.
He first graced TV screens in 1985 as a Top Sport anchor and later took up his iconic role as Carte Blanche news hound.
“The iconic presenter’s passing leaves a big void in the realm of journalism, where his dedication, integrity and storytelling skills have left an enduring mark on the hearts and minds of South Africans and beyond.
“Derek Watts was more than just a journalist; he was a voice of reason and an advocate for transparency and accountability.
“His dedication to journalistic ethics, courage in uncovering hidden truths and commitment to holding those in power accountable are values that will continue to inspire generations to come,” said Government Communication and Information and Information System (GCIS) Acting Director-General, Nomonde Mnukwa.
Among other things, Watts will be remembered for his interviews that were marked by a unique blend of empathy and straightforwardness, which allowed him to delve into the core of issues, while maintaining the respect and dignity of all involved.
“Government extends its heartfelt condolences to Derek Watts's family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives he touched through his work. Government also recognises the profound loss that his passing presents to the media fraternity and to the nation as a whole,” Mnukwa said. – SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 09:26
The Ad Hoc Committee to Nominate a Person for Appointment as Public Protector (PP) today interviewed the first four of the eight shortlisted candidates.
The interviewed candidate were: Adv Tseliso Thipanyane, Adv Kwena Thomas Ntsewa, Adv Oliver Josie and Adv Lynnette Marais. The committee spent 90 minutes per candidate.
The Chairperson of the committee, Mr Cyril Xaba, said the committee had fruitful, thorough and vigorous engagements with the candidates to ensure that it nominates the best possible candidate for the position in the end.
Adv Tseliso Thipanyane, former Chief Executive Officer of the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC), informed the committee that under his term at the SAHRC he stuck to the rules of the institution. He stated that corruption and maladministration have eroded the trust of the public in the institution. He said South Africa has good laws. But, according to him, the challenge is the implementation of the laws and how those in power are held accountable.
Adv Tommy Thomas Kwena Ntsewa indicated that the R350 million funding for the Office of the Public Protector South Africa (PPSA) is insufficient for its mandate and to him it is underfunded. If he is selected as the PP, he would introduce a campaign for “Public Protector to meet the people”. He described himself as being fair, honest, and principled and believes in inclusivity. He also proposed that all state departments and public enterprises must make a financial contribution towards a fund to support the PPSA.
Adv Oliver Josie informed the committee that he is truly independent to the extent that he does not vote. He defended that principle and argued that it is a Constitutional right not to vote just like it is to vote. In relation to questions regarding how he would handle conflict between the PP and the Deputy PP, he said clear roles and responsibilities should be identified in order to prevent conflicts.
Adv Lynnette Marais said, if she is selected, her first task would be to address low staff morale at the Office of the PPSA. Thereafter she said she would deal with the question of backlogs and make the office accessible to the poor and vulnerable.
Mr Xaba said the committee will continue tomorrow with its interviews with the remaining four candidates. They are: Ms Muvhango Lukhaimane, Ms Johannah Ledwaba, Prof Boitumelo Mmusinyane and Adv Kholeka Gcaleka.
The committee is expecting to deliberate on the interviews next week and submits its report to the National Assembly by 31 August 2023. The term of the current PP comes to an end in October 2023.
Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.
BRICS well positioned to create equitable world order
President Cyril Ramaphosa has used the occasion of the 15th BRICS Summit Open Plenary to reiterate the bloc’s commitment to the principles of solidarity, sustainable development and an equitable world order.
Joined by his counterparts from the grouping’s member countries – the President of Brazil Lula Da Silva; Russian President Vladimir Putin; Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and the People's Republic of China President, Xi Jinping – President Ramaphosa said the BRICS partnership must be harnessed to drive inclusive global economic recovery.
The South African Statesman said it remains a matter of concern that global financial and payment systems are “increasingly being used as instruments of geopolitical contestation”.
“Global economic recovery relies on predictable global payment systems and the smooth operation of banking, supply chains, trade, tourism and financial flows.
“We will continue discussions on practical measures to facilitate trade and investment flows through the increased use of local currencies,” President Ramaphosa said on the second day of the summit.
President Ramaphosa also said the bloc was "'deeply concerned about conflicts across the world that continue to cause great suffering and hardship".
“As South Africa, our position remains that diplomacy, dialogue, negotiation and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter are necessary for the peaceful and just resolution of conflicts.
With the BRICS partnership straddling four continents and five countries that are home to almost three and a half billion people, President Ramaphosa said the bloc has, over the years, been a major driver of global growth, trade and investment.
It is for this reason, the President said, that the agenda of peace and stability ought to be supported, as it is the precondition for a better and more equitable world.
“The world is changing. New economic, political, social and technological realities call for greater cooperation between nations.
“These realities call for a fundamental reform of the institutions of global governance so that they may be more representative and better able to respond to the challenges that confront humanity,” the President said.
This year’s edition of the BRICS Summit is a significant one, not only because it is the first to be hosted in person since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global restrictions, but because of the interest is has attracted from other countries, with over 20 countries having applied to join the bloc of developing nations.
President Ramaphosa said while BRICS is firmly committed to advancing the interests of the Global South, BRICS stands ready to collaborate with all countries that aspire to create a more inclusive international order.
“BRICS stands for solidarity and for progress. It stands for inclusivity and a more just, equitable world order. It stands for sustainable development.
“We are an inclusive formation of developing and emerging economies that are working together to benefit from our rich histories, cultures and systems to advance common prosperity. We do so because we know that poverty, inequality and underdevelopment are the biggest challenges facing humankind.”
Advancing the African agenda
The theme for this year’s summit – ‘BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism’ – is testament to the group’s realisation that Africa is pivotal to the world’s sustained development, something that President Ramaphosa says is a strategic priority for South Africa during its chairship of BRICS.
The President has welcomed the ongoing engagement of BRICS countries with Africa in the spirit of partnership and mutual respect.
The objectives of reciprocal trade and investment, he said, are some of the pillars in building an Africa that is able to compete on an equal footing in the global economy.
“The African Continental Free Trade Area, once fully operational, will unlock the benefits of the continental market and generate mutually beneficial opportunities for both African and BRICS countries,” President Ramaphosa said.
As the world grapples with climate change, the President said it has become crucial to ensure that the transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient future is just, fair and takes into account differing national circumstances.
In line with this objective, BRICS nations need to advance the interests of the Global South and call for industrialised countries to honour their commitments to support climate actions by developing economy countries.
President Ramaphosa expressed his full confidence that the 15th BRICS Summit will advance the cause of common prosperity and progress.
“We are confident that this 15th BRICS Summit will enrich and inspire our work towards the achievement of a more humane global community,” he said.
The summit, which will wrap up on Thursday, has already seen the hosting of the BRICS Business Council and the signing of a joint memorandum of cooperation, which will see China helping South Africa to power critical institutions as the country continues to work on a plan to deal conclusively with load shedding. - SAnews.gov.za
Edwin
Wed, 08/23/2023 - 13:18