The government said the key objective of the 9th BRICS parliamentary forum was to create a framework for the Free Inter-Africa Trade.
The forum kicked off on Wednesday at the Emperor’s Palace in Johannesburg.
The event brings together the parliamentary organs of BRICS countries.
As of March 2023, 54 African countries with a combined GDP of $ 3.4 trillion had signed the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) agreement.
Speaking at the BRICS parliamentary forum earlier on Wednesday, Deputy President Paul Mashatile said the realisation of free trade within the continent would be a win-win for the continent and BRICS nations.
Mashatile’s thoughts were echoed by Parliament Speaker Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula
“As South Africa, we are excited about the role parliamentary diplomacy within the realm of BRICS can play in creating an enabling environment for the successful implementation of the Africa free trade agreement.”
Over the next two days, the BRICS parliamentary forum will be engaging over plans to implement the resolutions taken during the 15th BRICS summit last month.
-EWN
In other news – Big trouble for Edwin Sodi after photos of his lavish 50th birthday celebration cause a stir
On Sunday, controversial businessman Edwin Sodi celebrated his 50th birthday, and images of a lavish luxury multi-million rand property have gone viral on social media.
The tycoon’s birthday was attended by his girlfriend Nokukhanya Zulu, media personality Babalwa Mneno and a few other Mzansi personalities, such as Bobby Blanco. Images of a lavish dinner under the stars could be seen circulating online, attended by some high-ranking politicians, such as ANC Gauteng provincial secretary TK Nciza. Read More
