President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for unity, dialogue and regional cooperation as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) concluded its virtual Extraordinary Summit on the political and security situation in Madagascar.
Delivering closing remarks at the summit on Wednesday, President Ramaphosa said the engagements by Heads of State and Government reflected a shared commitment to peace and stability in the region.
“The unity of purpose that has governed our engagements on this and other critical matters affecting our region is indeed commendable. We must continue in this vein,” he said.
President Ramaphosa said deliberations on Madagascar had been “substantive, detailed, constructive and most importantly, outcomes based,” underscoring SADC’s resolve to support a peaceful resolution to the country’s political challenges.
He called on the people of Madagascar to seize the moment and pursue national reconciliation.
“We call on all the Malagasy people to take this opportunity to deeply reflect on the challenges facing their country and choose the path of peace, unity, reconciliation and development,” the President said.
The SADC Chairperson welcomed the restoration of calm in Madagascar and noted steps taken by the Transitional Government to initiate national consultations earlier this month, saying these developments provided a foundation for further engagement and dialogue.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that SADC would remain actively engaged in Madagascar’s transition process, reaffirming the regional bloc’s commitment to peace, constitutional order and democratic governance.
He also highlighted the importance of cooperation among SADC Member States, noting that instability in one part of the region has implications for all.
“Inasmuch as conflict and instability in one part of the region impacts us all, cooperation is key to the region’s stability, peace and progress,” he said.
Turning to organisational matters, President Ramaphosa congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on his election as incoming Chair of SADC, expressing confidence in continued collaboration to advance the organisation’s mandate.
“I look forward to working closely with you, my dear brother as we advance the mandate of SADC in pursuit of peace, security and shared prosperity for our region and all its peoples,” he said.
President Ramaphosa concluded by thanking Heads of State and Government, Ministers and senior officials for their participation and preparatory work and extended well wishes to the region.
He wished leaders and citizens “a blessed festive season and a prosperous new year.” – SAnews.gov.za
