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Remarks by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini
Zuma at Opening Plenary of 4th Session of South Africa - Russia Inter Governmental
Committee on Trade and Economic Co-operation (ITEC), Presidential Guesthouse,
Thursday, 18 November 2004 Introductory remarks by Minister of Foreign
Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma · We can now begin our work
of the 4th session of the South Africa - Russia Inter Governmental Committee on
Trade and Economic Co-operation (ITEC). · It is with great pleasure
that I welcome you, Minister Yuri Petrovich Trutnev and your delegation to South
Africa - the cradle of humanity, for the first session of ITEC. ·
In the meantime, our countries have experienced many significant events - we have
had elections, South Africa is in the midst of its 10th anniversary celebrations.
These celebrations are for us and our friends - the Russian Federation which contributed
much to South Africa's liberation struggle - the celebrations are therefore, as
much your celebration as it is ours - your support has not been in vain.
·
You have also been celebrating the 60th anniversary of the fall of fascism to
which your country contributed a lot.
· We know, you too have had
very difficult times this year with the acts of terror you have experienced -
we condemn these acts of terrorism. In this regard you can count on our support
in the fight against terrorism across the globe. We will together, one day, defeat
the monstrosity of terrorism.
· We in Africa have been involved
in many initiatives - some good, others remain challenges. We must however continue
to work to create the conditions for peace and security to prevail.
·
Africa also experiences conditions of poverty and underdevelopment - we would
like, that at the turn of the century, the Africa we have is one of peace, strength
and prosperity - an Africa that can contribute to the well-being of humankind
- we would like it to be very different from the picture at the beginning of this
century.
· Our co-operation with Russia indicates that this can
be achieved - achievements in the fight against terrorism result in benefits for
the entire continent.
· While we appreciate the co-operation between
both countries, we are aware that the potential that exists has not been sufficiently
exploited.
· Our governments, Presidents and people expect us
to work must harder for the benefit of our two peoples.
· I am sure
that the working groups have been working quite well - I hope that in the reports
that will be tabled tomorrow, Friday 19 November 2004, will contain plans of action
for the year and beyond. I hope that we also be presented with proper mechanisms
to review the progress of work.
· I am very happy and impressed that
you have been accompanied by a business delegation - governments can only do so
much; the men and women of business are required to consolidate the work of governments.
·
I am pleased that both business sectors can come together to achieve what we think
is achievable - both markets and the potential that exists within them must be
explored and exploited.
Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853. Department
of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001
18 November 2004.
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