Media Statement
10 November 2015
President Jacob Zuma to attend the 40th Angolan Independence Anniversary
At the invitation of H. E. Mr José Eduardo Dos Santos, President of the Republic of Angola, H.E. Mr Jacob Zuma, President of the Republic of South Africa will on 11th November 2015 undertake a working visit to Angola to attend the 40th Anniversary of the Independence of Angola.
President Zuma’s visit is not only aimed at joining the people of Angola as they celebrate their 40th Anniversary of Independence, but also and most importantly his visit seeks to re-affirm the historical and fraternal relations that exist between South Africa and Angola. The relations between the two counties were cemented during the years of liberation struggle against colonialism and Apartheid when Angola played a significant role in support of the fight against apartheid.
Because of this history, South Africa and Angola enjoy solid political, economic and social cooperation as expressed through a Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation (JCC). There is a growing and noticeable economic cooperation between the two countries as evidenced by an increasing number of South African companies that have invested in the Angolan economy. Of significance is the growing trade cooperation. For example, in 2014 South African imports from Angola amounted to R21, 8 billion while exported goods worth about R2, 2 billion.
Furthermore, South Africa, Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have established a a unique Tripartite Mechanism on Dialogue and Cooperation between them which is aimed at helping the DRC to consolidate peace and stability and thus foster regional stability and development.
President Zuma will be accompanied by the Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services, Dr Siyabonga Cwele.
Enquiries: Clayson Monyela, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
0084
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