Pretoria – President Jacob Zuma has arrived in Senegal for the first state visit to that country by a South African Head of State.
South Africa wants to build on the existing historical relations and economic ties between the two countries.
According to the Presidency, South African exports to Senegal mainly consist of vegetable products, mineral products, plastics and rubber, machinery and mechanical appliances, prepared foodstuff, beverages and footwear.
South African imports consist of frozen and chilled fish, wood and articles of wood, textiles articles, cultural artefacts, jewellery, and works of art.
“Further cooperation is to be explored in the fields of tourism, infrastructure, food security, retail, and communication and energy investment projects. The South Africa-Senegalese business forum will meet during the state visit to discuss further cooperation,” said the Presidency in a statement.
The two countries are expected to sign agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with regards to agriculture and arts and culture
The Presidency said South Africa and Senegal share some commonalities in terms of historical sites. Senegal is known for Gorée Island whilst South Africa has Robben Island and the two countries are keen to establish cooperation in cultural tourism and heritage promotion.
“With regards to promoting economic development in the continent, Zuma and President [Macky] Sall share two important portfolios. President Sall is the Chairperson of NEPAD Heads of State and Government Orientation Committee which dovetails with the role of President Zuma as chairperson of the Presidential Infrastructure Championing Initiative within the AU.” – SAnews.gov.za
