Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane successfully concludes a Visit to the Republic of Mali

Pretoria - On Wednesday, 22 June 2011, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms. Maite Nkoana-Mashabane successfully concluded her visit to the Republic of Mali. Minister Nkoana-Mashabane’s visit to Mali was within the context of strengthening and deepening bilateral relations that exist between the two countries. 

Ministers Nkoana-Mashabane and her counterpart examined existing bilateral relations and resolved to further deepen and diversify diplomatic cooperation. Both Ministers also exchanged views on the outstanding draft agreements and agreed to hold the third session of the Mali-South Africa Joint Commission of Cooperation in South Africa as-soon-as-possible.

In addition, both Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to peace, security and regional integration within Africa - in particular, reaffirming their commitment the African Union’s efforts in the political situations in Sudan, Madagascar, Somalia, Libya and Zimbabwe. Minister Nkoana-Mashabane commended the efforts of the Government of Mali in fighting terrorism, trans border crime and illicit trade, especially in the Sahel-Saharan zone

Minister Nkoana-Mashabane had also paid a courtesy call on H.E. Amadou Toumani Touré, the President of the Republic of Mali and conveyed a message of friendship from President Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma.

Minister Nkoana-Mashabane is scheduled to return to the Republic of South Africa on Thursday, 23 June 2011.

For further information please contact Mr. Clayson Monyela spokesperson for DIRCO on 082 884 5974

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION

OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale, Pretoria

22 June 2011