Pretoria – Cabinet has welcomed the successful conclusion of President Jacob Zuma’s State Visit to Qatar.
The visit, which took place last week, saw the signing of several agreements and commitments, such as the agreements on defence cooperation, police cooperation, and cooperation in arts, culture and heritage, said Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation, Minister Jeff Radebe.
He was briefing the media on the outcomes of the Cabinet meeting held on 25 May 2016.
“The establishment of a joint investment committee to oversee the implementation of agreements in addition to the structured bilateral consultations enhances and elevates bilateral relations to a strategic level,” the Minister said.
Also, the President's interaction with the South Africa-Qatari Business Forum promoted business-to-business cooperation aimed at diversifying both economies.
“With both countries qualifying as maritime countries, the potential for cooperation in the Oceans Economy was also discussed. A number of South African companies, mainly in the Petrochemical-related sector operate in Qatar. One of South Africa's largest investments in the Middle East is Sasol, which plays an important role in the development of Qatar’s gas reserves.
“Other issues discussed include trade and economic relations as well as global and regional peace and security matters,” he said.
Earlier in May, the President undertook a working visit to Uganda, where he attended the inauguration ceremony of President Yoweri Museveni.
“… both Heads of State agreed to strengthen bilateral relations, and discussed the political and security situation in the Republic of Burundi and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.”
Minister Radebe said South Africa and Uganda have so far signed 20 bilateral agreements, with approximately 70 South African companies currently operating in Uganda.
In 2015, South African exports to Uganda amounted to R1.7 billion, while South African imports totaled R98 million.
Meanwhile, the Fort Hare centenary celebrations which were officiated by President Jacob Zuma were a success, said the Minister.
He said hundreds of guests, including alumni and Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, as well as diplomats, attended this prestigious milestone in South Africa’s history.
“This coincided with Africa Month, which commemorates the founding of the then Organisation of African Unity, now called the African Union (AU).
“Cabinet welcomes the progress made in resolving students’ issues, which should not have caused the destruction to property,” he said. – SAnews.gov.za
