Press Release

05 July 2012

Deputy Minister Ebrahim concludes successful Working Visit to the Kingdom of Spain

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ebrahim Ebrahim, has concluded a successful Working Visit to the Kingdom of Spain where he co-chaired the 8th Session of Annual Consultations between South Africa and Spain. The consultations were held in Madrid.

Deputy Minister Ebrahim's visit took place within the context of enhancing North-South Dialogue by strengthening relations with the Kingdom of Spain through the Annual Consultation Sessions.

This year's Session was an important milestone in the development of bilateral relations as it afforded the two countries an opportunity to further consolidate their co-operation in areas of mutual interest.

During the Session, Deputy Minister Ebrahim and his counterpart, the Secretary of State Mr Gonzala De Benito, reviewed political and economic bilateral relations and emphasised the importance and of this strategic relation.

The two also used the Session to exchange views and positions on issues pertaining to the Spanish candidacy to the UN Security Council for 2015-2016, current developments in certain parts of Africa, especially Mali and Guinea Bissau, and the situation in Western Sahara. In this regard, the two agreed to share experiences on democratic governance and transitions in Africa and the Middle East.

On the margins of the session, the two Deputy Ministers exchanged views on different issues pertaining to the African Agenda, the European Union, Multilateralism and other issues of mutual concern. 

In conclusion, Deputy Minister Ebrahim also congratulated the Spanish National Football Team for winning the European 2012 championships.

For further information, please contact Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, on 082 884 5974

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation

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