The President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira, met today with the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa (DIRCO), Hon. Ronald Lamola. This meeting marked their first engagement since Mr.Lamola’s appointment as South Africa’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.
During the discussions, President Charumbira sought South Africa’s support, as the host nation of the Pan-African Parliament, to drive critical regional initiatives forward. Central to their dialogue was the urgent need for the ratification of the Malabo Protocol, which would enhance the legislative and oversight powers of the PAP.
They also deliberated on advancing institutional reforms within the African Union (AU) and the role of the Pan-African Parliament in fostering greater continental unity and development.
Adequate funding for the Pan-African Parliament was a significant point of discussion, with President Charumbira emphasizing the importance of financial support to enable PAP to effectively fulfill its mandate of representing the aspirations of African citizens.
H.E. Chief Charumbira congratulated Minister Lamola on his appointment and expressed deep gratitude to the Republic of South Africa for its continued commitment to the Pan-African Parliament.
He acknowledged the invaluable facilities and resources South Africa provides as the host country, ensuring the smooth functioning of PAP throughout the year.
This meeting underscores the critical partnership between the Pan-African Parliament and its host country and reaffirms their shared commitment to advancing the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and promoting a united, prosperous Africa.
