Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation. (Photo: Kopano Tlape/GCIS)
Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco), says that especially developing countries such as South Africa have experienced the economic consequences of the war between the US and Iran.
Lamola therefore welcomes the memorandum of understanding that pres. Donald Trump and his Iranian counterpart signed this week to end the war and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump signed the memorandum this week at the Palace of Versailles after a G7 summit.
Lamola says it provides a framework for lasting peace and regional stability in the Middle East, as it reaffirms the need for peace and respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all states.
Lamola is particularly happy that the Strait of Hormuz will be reopened.
The minister believes the reopening of the important strait is of critical importance to stabilize the volatility in global oil markets and alleviate the energy and food security challenges facing developing countries in order to reverse its adverse impact on growth and recovery trajectories.
Lamola said on Friday that the move to end all types of sanctions against Iran was also welcomed as it would bring relief to the Iranian people after decades of hardship.
“South Africa has consistently called for international disputes to be settled through negotiation, not war.
The Strait of Hormuz. (Photo: SAHAR AL ATTAR / AFP)
“South Africa expresses its appreciation to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, together with the Sultanate of Oman and the State of Qatar, and other countries that have played a positive role in the process, for their dedicated and steadfast commitment to dialogue and constructive engagement.
“We are reminded of the words of the late President Nelson Mandela: ‘No problem is so deep that it cannot be overcome, given the will of all parties, through discussion and negotiation rather than force and violence.’
“South Africa encourages all parties involved in this process to work towards achieving just and lasting peace, stability and development in the Middle East and beyond.”