SA, Asia urged to unite

2004-08-20 13:15

Durban - The proposed New Asian-African Strategic Partnership (Naasp) should be used to counter the continued marginalising of these continents in world affairs, Foreign Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma said on Friday.

"This initiative can empower us to transform our reality," Dlamini-Zuma told delegates at the second ministerial meeting of the Asian-African Sub-Regional Organisations Conference (Aasroc) in Durban.

She said Friday's meeting was part of a process of renewing relations between the governments and peoples of Asia and Africa.

The two continents' histories and current situation demanded that countries moved beyond differences and unite in action for a better future.

"Through these interactions, we hope to enhance our economic, political, social and cultural well-being," she said.

Dlamini-Zuma urged members to embrace their differences, while also recognising "our sameness", as starting points towards a greater unity of humanity.

Dlamini-Zuma said members should "strongly reject" prejudices and stereotyping and be mindful of those who wished to keep states divided by continuing the polarisation of the world community.

She said the proposed partnership has the potential to be the collective expression of the desires and dreams of the two continents, with regional and sub-regional organisations "fundamental pillars" to underpin sustainable socio-economic development and growth.

Dlamini-Zuma said the fact that some of the world's largest and fastest growing economies are to be found in the two regions was not reflected in their positions on the global economic and political stage.

"It is clear that we need to continue to work together, sharing resources, expertise and experience, in order to reap the full benefits that can result from such a relationship," she said.

- SAPA