Africa-Press – Eswatini. His Majesty King Mswati III and Ghana President Dr. John Dramani Mahama, this afternoon witnessed the signing and establishment of a Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) between the two countries at the Presidency’s Credentials Hall.
Signing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing the JCC were Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Pholile Shakantu and her Ghanaian counterpart Okuzeto Ablakwa at the presidential State House.
This took place shortly after the King’s arrival for a State visit in Ghana accompanied by Inkhosikati LaMagongo.
He was given a ceremonial welcome at the Jubilee House before engaging in bilateral talks preceding the signing of the JCC.
The JCC outlines a framework for enhanced bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries. It seeks to strengthen the friendly and cordial relations already existing and enhance and expand bilateral relations and cooperation.
It also seeks to foster bilateral understanding between the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Republic of Ghana.
This will be achieved by holding regular consultations at all levels regarding bilateral relations and international issues of common interest.
Both countries have committed themselves to contributing to international peace and security. Eswatini currently sits as a member of the African Union Peace and Security Council.
With this JCC the two countries affirm to conduct bilateral consultations regarding important international issues of common interest.
His Majesty King Mswati III, accompanied by Inkhosikati LaMagongo, arrived safely in Ghana where he was received by Chief of Staff in the Presidency Julius Debrah. ((All pics by Lesang Makhubu – State Photographer.)
The competent authorities responsible for its implementation are the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Kingdom of Eswatini and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Ghana.
The Joint Commission’s objectives are to broaden and strengthen cooperation between the parties in all fields.
The Joint Commission is competent to promote cooperation across a wide range of sectors: economic and commercial, educational, science and technology, industrial and Energy.
Other areas of cooperation are in trade, food processing, tourism, sports, culture; infrastructure and agriculture.
The two countries have committed to hold periodic meetings of consultation at the level of senior officials of the two foreign ministries, for exchanging views on bilateral relations and international issues of mutual interest to follow up on the implementations of agreements already concluded or those which are to be concluded between the Parties.
The effect of the consultations would be also to make proposals to eliminate obstacles that might arise during the implementation of any project established in accordance with the MoU or with separate protocols or contracts.
Inkhosikati LaMagongo and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Pholile Shakantu share a moment.
The JCC is mandated to meet at least once a year in an ordinary session, alternating between Eswatini and Ghana, or in extraordinary sessions if requested.
The MoU took effect immediately upon signature and has an initial duration of five years, automatically extending unless terminated with three months’ prior written notice.
Any disputes arising during its implementation or interpretation are to be settled amicably through mutual consultations via diplomatic channels.
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
