Cape Town – Former member of the United Democratic Front (UDF) and anti-apartheid activist Dr Allan Boesak has reportedly expressed deep concern about South Africa hosting the United States of America.
This comes after the announcement that the Department of Trade, Industry, and Competition will host the United States’ African Growth and Opportunity (AGOA) forum in Johannesburg from November 2 to 4.
According to EWN, while the South African presidency viewed the event as a means to strengthen trade relations, Boesak criticised it, citing the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the US’s position on it.
He believed that South Africa was hosting a country that openly supported actions against Palestinians.
“Rising up for the people of Palestine is equal to standing for our own dignity as people,” the report quoted Boesak as saying.
Trade and Industry Minister Ibrahim Patel said last week that the event presented an opportunity for South Africa to emphasise its relationship with the United States
The forum will bring together government, business, labour, and civil society representatives eligible for Agoa, which offers duty-free access to the US market.
The event will focus on ways to enhance the benefits of Agoa, extend South Africa’s participation, and promote African industrialisation and beneficiation.
Notably, around 360 participants, including trade ministers, buyers, importers from Africa and the US, and congressional representatives, are expected to engage in trade discussions during the summit.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
