12. The two Heads of State took note of the effects of El Nino-induced drought in their respective countries and the region. They stressed the importance of adopting appropriate negotiation measures. They further expressed their concern at the socio-economic impact of the drought.
13. The two Heads of State called for further progress in the implementation of the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap. In this context they looked forward to the adoption of the Costed Action Plan for the implementation of the Strategy and Roadmap at the forthcoming SADC Extraordinary Summit to be held in March 2017.
14. The two Heads of State also exchanged views on the political and security developments in the region. In this regard, they reaffirmed the need to sustain peace and stability for the economic growth and integration of the region.
15. The two Heads of State condemned the upsurge of terrorism and extremism in some regions of the continent and they called for enhanced co-operation by AU Member States and other stakeholders in combating the scourge.
16. The two Heads of State expressed concern over the migration crisis affecting certain parts of the African continent and called for the humane treatment of migrants.
17. The two Heads of State reaffirmed their support for the SADC candidate for the post of the AU Commission Chairperson, Dr Pelonomi Venson-Moitoi, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Botswana. They also noted that Zimbabwe had two candidates for the positions of Commissioner for Political Affairs and Commissioner for Social Affairs.
18. With regards to the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, the Heads of State reiterated their support for the right to self-determination of the Saharawi people. They emphasised the need for Africa to speak with the same voice on this matter.
19. The two Heads of State noted Morocco’s application to join the AU and welcomed the statement by the AU Commission Chairperson highlighting the procedures for membership.
20. Regarding the question of Palestine, the two Heads of State reaffirmed their support for a credible and comprehensive peace process, with a view to achieving a just and lasting solution.
21. The two Heads of State reiterated their common view on the need to reform the multilateral institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council. They reaffirmed the Ezulwini Consensus as the common African position.
22. The two Heads congratulated Mr Antonio Guterres, the newly appointed Secretary-General of the United Nations.
23. The two Heads of State welcomed the establishment of the BRICS Bank and observed that His Excellency President Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma will be launching the BRICS Africa Regional Centre in December 2016.
Continued next page
(623 VIEWS)
