Pretoria - South Africa and Guinea are set to deepen the long-standing bilateral relations between the two countries.
This emerged during the 2nd Joint Commission for Cooperation [JCC] between South Africa and the mineral rich Guinea, which was co-hosted by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, and her counterpart Francois Lounceny Fall in Pretoria today.
Minister Nkoana-Mashabane said the bilateral discussions were characterised by cordial and cooperative interaction, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the two countries.
“During our discussions, we agreed that there is great potential between our two countries that must be explored to further strengthen this relationship for mutual benefit. We are convinced that our efforts will produce tangible results for the benefit of our people,” the minister said on Monday.
The JCC -- which came into being in November 2006 -- resolved that in order to give impetus to the decisions taken at today’s meeting, officials from the two countries will meet at least once a year and make the necessary follow-ups, with the view to implement the decisions of the meeting.
“We are pleased with the increasing cooperation between South Africa and the Republic of Guinea that spans from education, science and technology, mining, infrastructure development, agriculture, transport and a host of other areas,” Minister Nkoana-Mashabane said.
South Africa enjoys a long-standing relationship with Guinea, solidified by the unconditional support extended to the people of South Africa during the time of the struggle against apartheid.
To date, eight agreements have been signed by our two countries, including the Protocol on Diplomatic Consultations, Trade, Visa Waiver (for diplomatic and official passport holders) and Education. – SAnews.gov.za
