Islamabad, 21 March 2022 (TDI): Chief of South African Navy Vice Admiral Mosuwa Samuel Hlongwane called on Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Muhammad Amjad Khan Niazi at Naval Headquarters.
Upon arrival at Naval Headquarters; the Chief of South African Navy was received by the Naval Chief and was presented Guard of Honour. Afterward, the visiting dignity laid a wreath at the Shuhada monument and he was then introduced to Principal Staff Officers at Naval Headquarters.
Later, the Chief of South African Navy called on Chief of the Naval Staff in his office. During the meeting, both discussed matters of mutual interest including bilateral collaborations and regional maritime security milieu.
The Naval Chief highlighted the Pakistan Navy initiative of Regional Maritime Security Patrols for ensuring maritime security and peace in the region. The visiting Admiral appreciated the Pakistan Navy’s efforts and initiatives in support of collaborative maritime security in the region.
Afterward, the Chief of the South African Navy received a detailed briefing on Pakistan Navy roles and operational capabilities. The recent visit of the Chief of the South African Navy will further enhance bilateral collaboration between the two navies.
PAKISTAN-SOUTH AFRICA BILATERAL RELATIONS
Relations between Pakistan and South Africa go back more than six decades. Currently, they have cordial and stable relations, formed thanks to the support of Pakistan for the liberation struggle since 1994.
According to the South African Foreign Ministry; it was due to an exchange of notes on Establishing Diplomatic Relations in 1994, that led to the establishment of full diplomatic relations that same year.
Ismail Coovadia became South Africa’s first High Commissioner to Pakistan in 1995. Two years earlier, Pakistan established a High Commission in Pretoria in December 1993. Both countries established a joint commission, and the first one was in Islamabad in 2007.
Furthermore, the objective of the Commission was to provide a formal platform for structured bilateral discussions between South Africa and Pakistan. According to the South African Ministry; the fourth session of the Joint Commission was proof that both countries enjoyed good bilateral relations.
During the meeting, the countries reflected on the progress made in strengthening relations and exploring new avenues and opportunities for improving cooperation in various sectors. Both countries also discussed the potential for strengthening cooperation spans several fields; including trade, energy, defense, health, higher education, justice, transport, and mining.
SOUTH AFRICA AND PAKISTAN EXPORTS
South Africa’s main exports to Pakistan include machinery, prepared foodstuffs, vegetables, and live animals. The country also exports textiles, stones & glasses, vehicles aircraft & vessels, chemicals, footwear, toys & sports apparel.
On the other side, Pakistan’s main exports to South Africa include precious metal, iron & steel, photographic & medical equipment. Pakistan also exports footwear, vegetables, chemicals, raw hides and leather, plastics & rubber.
