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Press Statement
20 September 2012
Deputy Minister Ebrahim in South Korea for the Sixth Policy Consultative Forum
The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ebrahim Ebrahim, is in the Republic of Korea to co-chair the sixth (6th) Policy Consultative Forum (PCF) with the South Korean vice Minister Ho-young Ahn, scheduled for 21 September 2012 in Seoul.
The Policy Consultative Forum (PCF) will take place within the context of promoting the already important bilateral relations and strengthening strategic co-operation between the two countries.
A significant attempt to structure bilateral relations led to the establishment of a Policy Consultative Forum (PCF) between the two countries in April 1997. The first PCF took place in 2003, in South Africa and follow-up meetings took place in 2004, 2005, 2008 and 2011. These meetings further strengthened relations between the two countries.
Accordingly, it is expected that during the meeting the two principals will, among others, pursue the following objectives:-
- Strengthening and deepening bilateral relations following the 5th PCF held during 2011 in Pretoria;
- Seeking enhanced co-operation in the energy sector;
- Coordinating Skills Development and Training programmes and initiatives;
- Enhancing co-operation in the Multilateral Arena; and,
- Exploring possibilities of increasing trade & investment.
Formal diplomatic relations between South Africa and the Republic of Korea were established in December 1992. Increasingly the main focus of the bilateral relationship is on economic and business links. Today, South Korea is South Africa’s 4th largest trading partner in Asia and South Africa is South Korea’s largest trading partner in Africa. Trade between South Africa and South Korea encompasses a broad range of products from minerals to sophisticated high-technology electric products.
Deputy Minister Ebrahim is supported by senior government officials from the Departments of Energy; Trade & Industry; Communications; Mineral Resources; Water Affairs; Rural Development & Land Reform; Science & Technology; Transport; Land Bank and The South African Local Government Association (SALGA).
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, +27 82 884 5974
Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
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