US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor met in Washington DC, on September 26 to discuss a wide range of issues, including regional cooperation, climate change, energy, infrastructure development, and healthcare.
Both leaders affirmed the need for robust cooperation between the two countries on issues of common interest, including the reform of international financial institutions to ensure greater inclusivity in the Global South.
Blinken also emphasized the United States’ desire to continue moving forward with the Just Energy Transition Partnership to help South Africa meet its energy needs and thanked South Africa for hosting the upcoming African Growth and Opportunity Act Forum (AGOA).
Productive and direct conversation today with South African Minister Pandor on areas of shared interest, including the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum, and improving food security in Africa and globally. pic.twitter.com/NaxBuWmDIX
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) September 27, 2023
The AGOA Forum is a platform for dialogue and collaboration between the United States and AGOA-eligible nations, representatives from regional economic organizations, the private sector, civil society, and labor. The central focus of the forum is discussions on enhancing trade and investment relations between the United States and sub-Saharan Africa. Additionally, participants will deliberate on strategies to promote resilient, sustainable, and inclusive economic growth and development.
A highlight of the forum will be the ‘Made in Africa Exhibition,’ which is set to showcase regional value chains on the African continent, further emphasizing the importance of economic collaboration and innovation within the region.
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