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<p>Pretoria – The Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in Pretoria hosted an elegant reception at the Sheraton Hotel to commemorate the 53rd UAE National Day.</p>
<p>This distinguished event brought together senior officials from the South African government, ambassadors, high commissioners, business leaders, scholars, members of civil society, media representatives, and members of the South African community.</p>
<p><strong>A Legacy Built on Partnership</strong></p>
<p>His Excellency Mahash Saeed Alhameli, UAE Ambassador to South Africa, warmly welcomed the esteemed guests, including representatives from South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="853" height="1280" src="https://thebulrushes-media-content-af-south1.s3.af-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/02201031/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-02-at-19.26.59.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-69136" srcset="https://thebulrushes-media-content-af-south1.s3.af-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/02201031/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-02-at-19.26.59.jpeg 853w, https://thebulrushes-media-content-af-south1.s3.af-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/02201031/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-02-at-19.26.59.jpeg 200w, https://thebulrushes-media-content-af-south1.s3.af-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/02201031/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-02-at-19.26.59.jpeg 682w, https://thebulrushes-media-content-af-south1.s3.af-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/02201031/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-02-at-19.26.59.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 853px) 100vw, 853px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">His Excellency Mahash Saeed Alhameli, UAE Ambassador to South Africa</figcaption></figure>
<p>During his address, H.E. Alhameli reflected on the significant milestones achieved since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1994.</p>
<p>He underscored the lasting friendship and increasing collaboration between the two nations, showcasing the essence of fruitful international relationships.</p>
<p>As 2024 marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the UAE and South Africa, it coincides with South Africa’s celebration of three decades of democracy.</p>
<p>This dual commemorative occasion highlights the deeply rooted historical connections and shared aspirations for progress and prosperity.</p>
<p><strong>Enhancing Economic and Strategic Relations</strong></p>
<p>Nelia Barnard, a senior representative from the South African government, delivered an impactful speech, emphasizing the importance of the bilateral partnership.</p>
<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="853" height="1280" src="https://thebulrushes-media-content-af-south1.s3.af-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/02201027/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-02-at-19.28.48.jpeg" alt="" class="wp-image-69135" srcset="https://thebulrushes-media-content-af-south1.s3.af-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/02201027/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-02-at-19.28.48.jpeg 853w, https://thebulrushes-media-content-af-south1.s3.af-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/02201027/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-02-at-19.28.48.jpeg 200w, https://thebulrushes-media-content-af-south1.s3.af-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/02201027/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-02-at-19.28.48.jpeg 682w, https://thebulrushes-media-content-af-south1.s3.af-south-1.amazonaws.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/02201027/WhatsApp-Image-2024-12-02-at-19.28.48.jpeg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 853px) 100vw, 853px"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Nelia Barnard, a senior representative of the South African government</figcaption></figure>
<p>Barnard noted: “This year marks a significant milestone as we celebrate thirty years of diplomatic relations with the UAE, coinciding with three decades of our democracy.</p>
<p>“These anniversaries reinforce our mutual dedication to nurturing a vibrant and prosperous partnership.</p>
<p>“The UAE’s early recognition of democratic South Africa in 1994 laid the groundwork for a strong bilateral relationship.</p>
<p>“Through the years, high-level interactions, including the recent discussions between President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi at the G20 Summit in Brazil, underscore the strategic importance of our partnership.”</p>
<p>On the economic landscape, the UAE has emerged as South Africa’s largest trading partner in the Middle East, with bilateral trade reaching R120 billion in 2023.</p>
<p>South African exports amounted to R47 billion, while imports from the UAE totaled R73 billion.</p>
<p>Significant investments from UAE firms, including DP World’s acquisition of Imperial Logistics valued at R12.7 billion and AMEA Power’s USD180 million solar project in Limpopo, have contributed to job creation and bolstered socioeconomic development.</p>
<p><strong>Expanding Multilateral Cooperation</strong></p>
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<p>The UAE’s recent acceptance as a full BRICS member in January 2024 represents a significant turning point in global multilateralism.</p>
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<p>The representative added: “South Africa extended a warm welcome to the UAE’s entry into BRICS and is optimistic that its inclusion will further amplify the bloc’s inclusivity and cooperative spirit.”</p>
<p>The mutual commitment of both nations to dialogue, peace, and sustainable development underscores the strength of their partnership.</p>
<p>Anticipation is building for the upcoming fourth meeting of the Joint Committee for Cooperation in 2025, which aims to enhance collaboration across different sectors.</p>
<p><strong>Innovation, Diplomacy, and Vision</strong></p>
<p>The UAE’s global leadership in innovation and scientific diplomacy was underscored, with both countries exploring opportunities in space exploration, renewable energy, and digital connectivity.</p>
<p>The representative reaffirmed a collective commitment to addressing critical global challenges, such as climate change and peacebuilding initiatives.</p>
<p>South Africa values the UAE’s principled stance on regional matters, especially regarding the Palestinian situation.</p>
<p>The representative reiterated South Africa’s call for a fair and just two-state solution, in accordance with international law, recognizing East Jerusalem as the capital of an independent Palestinian state.</p>
<p><strong>Honoring Achievements</strong></p>
<p>The event concluded on a festive note, with attendees partaking in a cultural celebration and a raffle that awarded air tickets to two lucky winners.</p>
<p>This gathering showcased the enduring friendship between South Africa and the UAE.</p>
<p>Together, they celebrated the UAE’s impressive accomplishments over the past 53 years while strengthening a shared vision for a successful and harmonious future.</p>
<p>On behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa, the government, and the people of South Africa, heartfelt congratulations were conveyed to His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as well as to the government and the people of the UAE on this momentous occasion, as expressed by Nelia Barnard.</p>
<p>Happy National Day, UAE.</p>
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