Story by John Nhandara

THE Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has expressed keen interest in partnering with the Pan-African Parliament in different socio-economic and political areas.

The Pan African Parliament (PAP) is exploring areas of cooperation with various global institutions to strengthen and facilitate mutually beneficial partnerships.

The latest is a partnership with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s consultative assembly also known as the Shura council which is the formal advisory body in that country.

Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to South Africa, His Excellency Sultan Al Angari paid a courtesy call on Pan African Parliament President, Chief Fortune Charumbira this Monday on the sidelines of the sitting of PAP committees in Midrand South Africa.

It emerged from the meeting that plans for the signing of a memorandum of understanding between Saudi Arabia’s consultative assembly, the Shura council and the PAP are at an advanced stage.

Ambassador Angari noted, ‘‘We had a fruitful discussion to enhance the relationship between the Shura council in Saudi Arabia and PAP. We are also preparing for Chief fortune Charumbira’s visit to Saudi Arabia.

“There is a memorandum of understanding to be signed between the two institutions that are PAP and Shura council. The MOU covers areas of the economy, social and political spheres. This is part of Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy to enhance its relationship with African countries and institutions.’’

PAP committees and caucuses are in Midrand South Africa for two-week sessions, deliberating on various issues affecting the continent including immigration, food security, drug trafficking, climate change and how to promote peace and security within the region.