President Hakainde Hichilema joined fellow Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State in a virtual meeting to deliberate over the state of affairs in Madagascar.
South African President Cyrli Ramaphosa, who is SADC incoming Chairperson, reaffirmed the Regional body’s commitment to ensure peace and stability continues to prevail in the region especially in Madagascar which has recently been rocked by protests.
He said the challenges confronting the SADC region need solidarity by the member states in order to foster peace for economic growth and regional integration.
Speaking during the official opening of the virtual SADC extraordinary meeting, Â attended by President Hakainde Hichilema at State House, President Ramaphosa noted that the region needs clear vision from leaders to industrialise and promote regional integration.
ZANIS reports that President Ramaphosa said the meeting was meant for leaders to deepen their understanding of the challenges affecting the region.
Mr Ramaphosa said the myriad challenges facing the region need solidarity and concerted efforts from member states to ensure peace and stability is maintained in the communities of the regional bloc
He further expressed sorrow and sadness over the loss of lives in Madagascar following protests that ensued, forcing President Andry Rajoelina to flee the country.
Earlier, SADC Executive Secretary, Elias Magosi also reiterated the need for the SADC member states to champion democracy in the region.
Mr Magosi explained that the SADC extraordinary meeting was called to elect a new Chairperson for the SADC organ on Politics, Defence and security.
He underscored the region’s dedication to promote economic growth through industrialisation, scaling up energy projects and agricultural activities aimed at accelerating prosperity in the region.
Some of the member states that attended the virtual meeting included Namibia, Madagascar, Zambia, Mozambique and Tanzania among others.
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