President Thabo Mbeki visits the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday, 11 September 2006

Pretoria – South African President Thabo Mbeki will visit the Democratic Republic of Congo on Monday 11 September 2006 to hold bilateral discussions with his Congolese counterpart President Joseph Kabila in Kinshasa.

President Mbeki’s discussions with his counterpart President Kabila comes within the context of South Africa’s commitment to consolidate the African agenda through, among others, the promotion of post-conflict reconstruction and development within Africa. In this regard, the visit follows the successful first round of democratic, multi-party elections in the country in more than 40 years, in which South Africa was a key partner.

Discussions between President Mbeki and President Kabila are expected to focus on the outcomes of this first round of elections and preparations for the second round of Presidential elections due to be held on 29 October 2006.

While in Kinshasa, President Mbeki is also expected to consult with Vice President Jean-Pierre Bemba, who together with President Kabila, will contest the presidential runoff.

President Mbeki is expected to return to South Africa on Monday 11 September 2006 ahead of his departure for the historic IBSA Summit to be hosted by Brazilian President Lula da Silva from Tuesday – Wednesday 12-13 September 2006.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

℅ Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

10 September 2006