Mbabane – Senator Pholile Shakantu, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, received a courtesy call from Mr. Tiyani Raymond Sithole, South Africa’s Charge d’Affaires to Eswatini, at the Ministry offices in Mbabane on Thursday, 8 January 2026. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral relations and exploring opportunities for deeper cooperation between the neighbouring countries.
Cultural exchange emerged as a key topic, with both parties noting the role of Eswatini’s cultural events in strengthening ties with South Africa. Plans were discussed to collaborate on upcoming cultural programmes, aiming to boost participation and visibility while promoting mutual understanding and friendship. These events are expected to highlight the rich traditions and heritage of both nations.
Economic cooperation featured prominently, particularly the renewal of the Joint Bilateral Cooperation Commission (JBCC) agreement. Minister Shakantu and Mr. Sithole acknowledged the JBCC as an essential mechanism for improving trade and economic relations. Discussions focused on ways to expedite the renewal process and introduce new provisions to facilitate smoother trade, address emerging challenges, and strengthen the economic partnership for mutual benefit.
The JBCC, signed on 20 December 2004, was established to formalise the strategic partnership between Eswatini and South Africa. It is grounded in historical, cultural, and geographic ties and seeks to promote collaboration in areas such as health, science and technology, arts and film, and mutual legal assistance in civil and criminal matters. The agreement also facilitates the movement of people, goods, and services and supports the development of user-friendly border posts. Beyond these areas, the Commission provides a forum for discussing issues not specifically covered by the agreement but of concern to either country.
The meeting also touched on cooperation in funding support for disaster-affected homesteads, reflecting shared commitment to addressing community needs in times of crisis.
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