South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique have concluded the 4th Session of the Mozambique-South Africa Bi-National Commission in Maputo, reaffirming their countries’ commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation. The session brought together ministers, senior officials, and technical experts to assess progress since the 3rd Commission meeting in Pretoria in 2022 and to sign new Memoranda of Understanding.
Ramaphosa said the meeting demonstrated the shared responsibility of both countries to ensure that current and future generations benefit from their strategic relationship. “President Chapo and I concur that we have a historic responsibility to our respective peoples to ensure that current and future generations appreciate the fruits of this strategic relationship,” he said. He highlighted that the Council of Ministers presented a comprehensive report reflecting outcomes from focused deliberations among officials and technical teams.
The presidents reviewed cooperation in multiple sectors, with an emphasis on turning decisions into practical benefits. President Ramaphosa noted the importance of identifying opportunities and investment avenues to benefit both countries. “South Africa’s development finance institutions, state-owned enterprises and private companies stand ready to be partners,” he said.
On the eve of the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg last month, President Ramaphosa met with South African companies operating across the continent, including in Mozambique. He said the private sector confirmed its commitment to Africa’s growth and development, which the Bi-National Commission seeks to support.
The commission focused on expanding collaboration in energy, mining, infrastructure, agriculture, financial services, telecommunications, health, tourism, and hospitality. Both nations also explored cooperation in defence and security, including border management. President Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of leveraging the countries’ natural resources, both on land and offshore, to drive growth.
As part of the ongoing partnership, President Ramaphosa and President Chapo are scheduled to travel to Inhambane Province to jointly launch a gas facility built by Sasol. “This project is another shining example of how two friendly neighbours can collaborate effectively,” Ramaphosa said, highlighting the role of public-private sector partnerships. He thanked the Mozambican government for providing opportunities for South African companies to invest and operate commercially in Mozambique.
In closing, Ramaphosa expressed gratitude for Mozambique’s hospitality and reaffirmed the deep bonds of friendship and solidarity between South Africans and Mozambicans. “South Africans and Mozambicans are one people,” he said, adding that when the 5th session of the Bi-National Commission is held in South Africa, both countries aim to report even greater progress.
The 4th Bi-National Commission reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen economic, social, and security cooperation between South Africa and Mozambique, while providing a framework for private and public sector investment, sustainable development, and regional integration.
