President Zuma arrives at G8 summit

L’Aquila, Italy – South African President Jacob Zuma arrived in L’Aquila, Italy this morning (Wednesday, 8 July 2009) to attend the G8 Summit.

President Zuma is leading a South African delegation that includes Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Maite Nkoana-Mashabane and Minister of Water and Environmental Affairs Buyelwa Sonjica.

South Africa is attending the summit as a member of the Group of Five (G5) countries, which is comprised of Brazil, China, India, Mexico and South Africa. The G5 brings together the largest developing economies in the world around a common agenda for equitable and sustainable development.

President Zuma will be attending the G5 summit later on Wednesday.

Among the issues to be discussed at the summit are:
-       the world economic crisis and its impact on the developing world,
-       food security,
-       climate change,
-       future G5 collaboration,
-       reforming the United Nations and other multilateral forums and institutions.

The G5 and G8 leaders will hold a joint working session on Thursday (9 July 2009) to address global issues and challenges facing developing countries.

President Zuma returns to South Africa on Friday 10 July.

Issued by:
The Presidency
Union Buildings
Tshwane
8 July 2009
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