The SAZF has welcomed the decision to grant Israel observer status in the AU, and has encouraged the government of SA to accept the decision for improved relations.
The National Chairperson for the South African Zionist Federation (SAZF), Rowan Polovin issued a statement on Thursday, 29 July 2021, in support of the African Union’s (AU) decision to grant Israel observer status. The SAZF wrote that it welcomes the establishment of Israel’s observer status in the AU.
The SAZF emphasised that the decision was a corrective step to the anomaly that had prevailed for two decades to prevent Israel’s observer status, noting that it already had diplomatic relations with 46 of the 55 member states of the AU. The SAZF expressed that it was encouraged that AU members would work more closely with Israel to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, improve regional security, and implement water, agricultural and health technology solutions for the benefit of their people. The SAZF also wrote that it hopes the AU observer status will assist in further establishment of African countries’ diplomatic ties to Israel.
The SAZF further noted that it was unfortunate that the South African Government had taken a position against the developments and the critical work between Israel and African states, as it would improve relations with Israel and would benefit South Africa.
m.lakaje@politcalanalysis.co.za
