President Mbeki arrives in Namibia

Windhoek – South African President and Mrs Thabo Mbeki today Tuesday 30 October 2007 arrived in Windhoek, Namibia ahead of a two-day State Visit scheduled from Tuesday – Wednesday 30-31 October 2007.

“This will be the first state visit to Namibia by President Mbeki since the visit of President Nelson Mandela” said Minister Dlamini Zuma.

President Mbeki is supported by Ministers Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Mandisi Mpahlwa, Alec Erwin, Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, Lulu Xingwana and Deputy Minister Rejoice Mabudafhasi.

“President Thabo Mbeki and his delegation are visiting Namibia within the context of South Africa’s priority to consolidate bilateral political, economic and trade relations with Namibia as part of efforts to consolidate the African Agenda” continued Minister Dlamini Zuma.

Issues on the agenda of discussions between President Mbeki and President Pohamba later today Tuesday 30 October 2007 are expected to include, among others:

• The status of bilateral political, economic and trade relations between the two countries;
• A review of political, social and economic developments in the region; and
• The forthcoming Africa – European Union Summit to be hosted by Portugal at the end of the year.

“It is expected that an Agreement regarding the Transfer of Status Records of Persons Born, Married or Died in Namibia held by the government of the Republic of Namibia and a Memorandum of Understanding on Diplomatic Consultations between South Africa and Namibia will be signed on conclusion of discussions between President Mbeki and President Pohamba” concluded Minister Dlamini Zuma.

President Mbeki will also later today Tuesday 30 October 2007 address a joint sitting of the two houses of Parliament, receive a courtesy call from former President Sam Nujoma and lay a wreath at Hero’s Acre.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853.

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

30 October 2007