By Dikeledi Molobela
Hanoi, Vietnam – President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasised the importance of strengthening ties between the legislatures of South Africa and Vietnam, describing parliamentary diplomacy as an essential pillar in advancing cooperation between the two nations.
Speaking during a courtesy call on the Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam, Trần Thanh Mẫn, President Ramaphosa said it was vital that relations between countries go beyond the executive level and extend to their parliaments.
“South Africa values the important role that parliamentary democracy plays in strengthening bilateral relations. It is important that relations between two countries are not just limited to government level, but also at a parliamentary level,” the President said.
He noted that South Africa attaches great significance to inter-parliamentary cooperation, which helps deepen understanding, promote accountability, and ensure that bilateral agreements are effectively implemented.
President Ramaphosa recalled the productive engagements earlier this year between the Deputy Chairperson of Vietnam’s National Assembly and South Africa’s presiding officers, including the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces.
“These exchanges have laid a strong foundation for deeper institutional cooperation between our parliaments. I am pleased that we have agreed to reciprocal visits by office bearers in 2026, which will further enhance dialogue, oversight, collaboration and the sharing of legislative processes,” the President said.
The President also commended the engagement between the delegation of the Communist Party of Vietnam and Speaker of Parliament, Thoko Didiza, in 2024, saying such interactions reflect the enduring relationship and shared values between the two countries.
Now that South Africa and Vietnam have elevated their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, President Ramaphosa said the role of both legislatures will be crucial in ensuring that agreements reached in areas such as trade, culture, and governance are effectively translated into action.
“Our legislatures will play a critical role in ensuring that agreements between our governments are implemented and that they deliver tangible benefits for our peoples,” the President added.
Following the courtesy call, President Ramaphosa was given a brief tour of the National Assembly Museum.
Earlier, the President paid a courtesy call to the family home of the late General Võ Nguyên Giáp, one of Vietnam’s most revered military leaders.
During the private engagement, General Giáp’s family took the President through the historic home, where he observed local traditions and paid respects at a sacred site. President Ramaphosa also signed the family book, leaving a heartfelt message of appreciation to the family.
READ | South Africa–Vietnam talks lay foundation for more structured and forward-looking partnership
– SAnews.gov.za
