Media Statement
10 March 2015
Deputy Minister Landers concludes official visit to Colombia
International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Luwellyn Landers has today, 10 March 2015, concluded his Official Visit to Bogota, the Republic of Colombia.
During his visit to Bogata, Deputy Minister held a bilateral meeting with his counterpart, Ms Patti Londoño. Amongst the issues discussed during the meeting, Deputy Minister Landers conveyed South Africa´s interest in opening an Embassy in Bogota.
The meeting concluded with the two countries signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Establishment of a Political Consultation Mechanism between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Colombia. The MoU is important as it will play a significant role in providing structure to relations, especially considering the opportunities in both countries e.g. trade and investment, social development and sharing of best practises, as well as cooperating in multilateral organisations.
Relations between South Africa and Colombia were established in 1994 and Colombia opened a resident Embassy in1995. Bilateral relations between South Africa and Colombia are cordial and growing. Colombia has since 2012 decided to prioritise South Africa and referred to the country as the African Gateway.
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
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