MANZINI – His Majesty King Mswati III has prayed to God to grant him wisdom as Eswatini takes on the SADC Organ Troika chairmanship.
His Majesty said the kingdom faces a familiar regional test as Madagascar grapples with an issue similar to one previously experienced by Eswatini.
The King was speaking at Ludzidzini yesterday while reporting to the nation on his recent participation in the SADC Summit in South Africa and his official visit to Malaysia.
His Majesty welcomed Eswatini’s election to chair the SADC Organ Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation and thanked SADC member States for trusting the kingdom with the responsibility.
He said Eswatini’s assumption of the chairmanship came with a significant responsibility, particularly as the region continues to deal with political and security challenges.
The King said Eswatini was now facing a test similar to one it had faced before, noting that Madagascar is currently experiencing a situation comparable to what Eswatini had gone through when it previously occupied the position.
He said this made the responsibility particularly important, as the kingdom would now have to contribute to finding solutions to challenges affecting other SADC member States.
His Majesty said the Troika chairmanship required wisdom and prayed to God to give him the wisdom needed to carry out the task successfully.
He also applauded Zimbabwe and those who previously held the chairmanship, acknowledging their contribution to the work of the regional security organ.
The King further expressed his wish for the Madagascar issue to be resolved quickly.
He said SADC teams had already been sent to Madagascar to gather finer details about the situation and engage with relevant stakeholders.
According to His Majesty, the teams would first gather sufficient information before sitting with representatives from Madagascar to examine the situation and look for possible solutions.
He said it was important for SADC to understand the circumstances fully before deciding on the appropriate intervention.
The King expressed hope that the process would lead to a quick resolution of the Madagascar issue.
He said the experience of dealing with similar challenges in the region meant that SADC had an important role to play in helping member States navigate difficult political situations.
The Madagascar issue is expected to be among the matters requiring attention during Eswatini’s tenure as chair of the SADC Organ Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.
His Majesty’s election to the position took place during the 46th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government held in South Africa.
The Organ Troika is responsible for regional political, defence and security matters, including conflict prevention, management and resolution.
The King said Eswatini appreciated the confidence placed in the kingdom by SADC member States and would approach the responsibility with humility and a commitment to regional peace and stability.
He said he prayed for divine wisdom as he undertakes the responsibility and works with other SADC leaders to address challenges facing the region.
His Majesty has since returned home following his SADC and Malaysia engagements and was welcomed by members of the public, government officials and members of the Royal Family.
His report at Ludzidzini Royal Residence provided the nation with an insight into his international engagements and the responsibilities now before Eswatini as it assumes the SADC Troika chairmanship.
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