Pretoria - International Relation's Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim has called for increased economic and trade relations between Vietnam and Africa, saying "the time to act is now".
Addressing the second Africa-Vietnam Forum held in Hanio, Ebrahim said although relations between the them, which started centuries ago, have been strengthened and expanded significantly in recent years - there was still untapped opportunities.
"We need to deepen our engagements in addressing the trade imbalance that currently exist to ensure the continuation of a mutually beneficial relationship between our two countries," Ebrahim told the forum attended by representatives from over 40 African countries.
The three-day forum is expected to lay a roadmap for bilateral cooperation between the continent and Vietnam for the next decade.
It will focus on multi-sector and multifaceted cooperation, especially in food security, mining, poverty reduction, trade, and grooming human resources for sustainable development.
He said South Africa was determined to put to Vietnam's disposal the country's infrastructure, human capital and skills pool to enhance common engagement with the African continent.
In terms of integration, the deputy minister indicated that South Africa was ready to strengthen trade relations between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), Southern African Development Community (SADC) as well as other regional economic communities in Africa.
"I believe this is possible, due to a number of initiatives in Africa, such as the development of regional free trade areas in order to enhance our relations with the rest of the world."
Already Vietnam, which has set its sights on becoming a developed nation by 2020 enjoys an array of favourable bilateral relations with African countries.
Ebrahim also made reference to the successful hosting of the2010 FIFA World Cup, saying it has brought a new dawn to the continent and has proved to the world that Africa was alive with possibilities
"The vibrancy of the African continent and her people is echoing throughout the continent, as we move towards a new dawn - one encompassing a passion for success, fortitude in our endeavours and most of all, Africa's spirit of resilience," said Ebrahim.
