Media Statement
23 August 2014
President Zuma to undertake a Working Visit to the Russian Federation
President Jacob Zuma is to undertake a Working Visit to the Russian Federation on 24-29 August 2014.
The visit takes place after the successful Working Visit of President Putin to Durban, South Africa, and President Zuma’s Working Visit to Sochi, Russian Federation, in March and May 2013 respectively, as well as Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane’s successful Working Visit to the Russian Federation in September 2013, and the recent meeting on the margins of the BRICS Summit in Brazil.
The President is scheduled to meet President Putin later in the week, and during the bilateral talks the two Presidents are expected to assess the state of bilateral cooperation, the status and implementation of Intergovernmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Agreements, key trade and investment issues, and preparations for the 12th ITEC Session to be hosted by South Africa during the course of the year 2014. The visit will further strengthen the excellent bilateral relations with a view to consolidating and opening new avenues towards job creation, skills development, exchange and transfer of technology and trade and investment.
The two Presidents will also focus on developments on critical international issues of mutual concern, including, but not limited to the situation in Syria, and the Israel-Palestine matter, as well as developments in Ukraine, which is Russia’s neighbour.
Ahead of the bilateral meeting, President Zuma will on 25-27 August hold low key meetings and use the period to rest.
The President will be accompanied by the Minister of State Security, Mr David Mahlobo, and Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Nomaindiya Mfeketo. The Minister and Deputy Minister will hold bilateral talks with their Russian counterparts.
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
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