Minister Dlamini Zuma to Launch SA-China Commemorative Stamp

Beijing – South African Foreign Minister Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma will today Thursday 24 April 2008 in Beijing, People’s Republic of China launch a stamp and envelope commemorating the first decade of diplomatic relations between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China as part of a series of events designed to celebrate this landmark in relations between the two countries.

Ministers Dlamini Zuma and Mandisi Mpahlwa as well as Deputy Minister Aziz Pahad, supported by other senior officials from South Africa are in Beijing, People’s Republic of China within the context of the 10th Anniversary Celebrations of Diplomatic Relations between the two countries.

Meanwhile Deputy Minister Pahad will also today Thursday 24 April 2008 participate in a seminar held under the banner of South Africa’s vision for the 21st Century in Shanghai, People’s Republic of China.
   
Minister Dlamini Zuma will on Friday 25 April 2008 depart for Shanghai where she will later in the day, together with Trade and Industry Minister Mandisi Mpahlwa and Deputy Minister Pahad participate in the official inauguration of the new South African Consulate-General in Shanghai led by our Consul-General Vika Khumalo.

Minister Dlamini Zuma this week held bilateral political and economic discussions with her Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi with a view to consolidating bilateral relations and addressed the Chinese Academy of Sciences. Both Minister Dlamini Zuma and Minister Mandisi Mpahlwa also addressed the South African Ambassadors and High Commissioners on the national ,regional and international development and its impact on South Africa’s foreign policy.

The 10th year Anniversary celebrations of the establishment of diplomatic relations will culminate in a state visit to China later this year by President Thabo Mbeki. In addition, South Africa will be participating in Shangai Expo scheduled for later this year.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

24 April 2008