South African High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, has called on the international community to support efforts for peace in the West Asia conflict. Sooklal emphasized the negative global impact of the war, particularly on energy security, echoing Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s stance against war.
He expressed hope for a positive outcome through peace talks between the United States and Iran, stressing the importance of optimism in the current situation. The Donald Trump administration has extended a ceasefire with Iran while maintaining a naval blockade, signaling a dual-track approach with economic pressure on Tehran.
Sooklal warned that failure in US-Iran talks could escalate tensions, highlighting the necessity of dialogue for resolving conflicts and achieving lasting peace. He also noted the adverse effects of the conflict on renewable energy adoption and global cooperation in various sectors.
The South African Ambassador emphasized the importance of a multipolar world, welcoming the shift away from unilateral power dynamics. He criticized the exclusion of South Africa from the G20 Summit, labeling it as a weaponization of the grouping, and affirmed South Africa’s commitment to playing a constructive role in addressing global challenges.
Reflecting on South Africa’s constitutional journey, Sooklal praised the country’s constitution, inspired by India’s, as a cornerstone of democracy and national unity. He underscored the significance of Constitution Day in upholding values and ensuring a society free from the shadows of racism and apartheid, highlighting the country’s progress in governance and democracy.
