Uruguay Celebrates 198 Years of Independence

Uruguay Celebrates 198 Years of Independence

Pictured at the celebration (l-r) Patricia Villanueva, Consul of the Embassy of Uruguay, Acting Director-General at the Ministry of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, Mamogala Musekene, Ambassador José Luis Rivas López of Uruguay and singers Mbali Sebokedi and Daniel Lobo Tabora who performed the national anthems of South Africa and Uruguay respectively (photo: TDS)

31 August 2023 - TDS

On August 25th, Uruguay commemorated 198 years of independence, marking a significant milestone in its history. At a celebration in Pretoria, Ambassador José Luis Rivas López of Uruguay to South Africa, highlighted the robust democratic institutions and international engagement that have characterized Uruguay's journey over nearly two centuries.

Uruguay and South Africa have cultivated a deep friendship and partnership that spans various sectors. This bilateral relationship reached a new level of cooperation on July 26th, 2023, when the two nations convened for the second meeting of the Bilateral Consultative Mechanism in Montevideo, Uruguay's capital. South African Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, engaged in fruitful discussions with Uruguay's Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, Nicolas Albertoni, and Vice Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mining, Walter Verri. These meetings exemplified the commitment of both countries to strengthening their ties.

South African Deputy Minister Alvin Botes holding Bilateral Consultations with his Uruguayan counterpart Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Nicolas Albertoni in Montevideo, Uruguay to strengthen political, economic and cultural relations (photo: Dirco)

One of the cornerstones of the relationship between South Africa and Uruguay is their alignment on numerous global issues. Both nations champion peace and security, human rights, and sustainable development on the international stage. Ambassador Rivas underscored their shared commitment to the multilateral system as well as regional cooperation.

In emphasizing Uruguay's dedication to the United Nations, it is noteworthy that the country actively contributes to global peacekeeping efforts. Uruguay has dispatched peacekeepers to regions plagued by conflict, embodying its commitment to the first pillar of the UN. Secretary General of the UN Antonio Guterres, in his recent address at the BRICS Summit, aptly noted, "As the global community moves towards multipolarity, we desperately need a strengthened and reformed architecture based on the UN Charter and InternationalLlaw."

The relationship between South Africa and Uruguay has deep historical roots, dating back to the 19th century. In 1884, both countries signed a treaty on the mutual surrender of fugitives and criminals, signifying their early commitment to cooperation. This historical foundation has paved the way for contemporary collaboration across various sectors.

Uruguay's membership in the BRICS New Development Bank further solidifies its presence on the global stage. This partnership not only enhances Uruguay's economic opportunities but also fosters a stronger connection with South Africa and other BRICS member nations.

Economic ties between South Africa and Uruguay are bolstered by their participation in the MERCOSUR preferential trade agreement. This agreement opens doors for increased trade and investment between the two nations, driving economic growth and prosperity.

South Africa, the defending champions, and Uruguay will compete in the 2023 Rugby World Cup scheduled to take place from 8 September to 28 October 2023 in nine venues across France.

Uruguay's National Day celebrated in Pretoria signifies the enduring friendship and partnership between the two countries. As both nations continue to collaborate across political, economic, and cultural spheres, their shared commitment to peace, development, and multilateralism, serves as a beacon of hope in an interconnected world.

TDS

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