Africa could be drawn into proxy battles that have domino effects on security, foreign investment and trade relationships.
A revamped agreement must factor in modern geopolitical and trade dynamics, and constraints facing African producers.
For Africa, the rise of the global south is necessary to achieve the continent’s development goals.
Africa will feel the effects, but smart countries could derive some benefits from the Red Sea turmoil.
Regardless of what the World Court decides, a recalibration of South Africa’s bilateral relations will be needed.
With Africa’s strategic importance rising, India has leveraged the global trust deficit to become a trusted interlocutor.
African countries must exercise economic prudence and geopolitical tact to minimise war-induced disruptions.
Putin’s stay-away from the BRICS summit means Pretoria can remain on favourable terms with Russia without antagonising key Western partners.
A year of reckoning approaches, with 20 elections and a wall of over 10 bond redemptions due in 2024.
Miscalculations in handling accusations that arms were provided to Russia could cost South Africa dearly.
The question is less about whether summits work and more about how to make them work for Africa.
Expectations are that China’s grand ‘reopening’ will provide the lifeline many countries desperately need.
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