Pretoria – The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Marius Fransman, on Tuesday wrapped his official visit to Switzerland, where he co-chaired the 5th High-level Consultations.
The talks were an opportunity for the two countries to discuss several issues concerning foreign policy; economic, trade and financial matters; development cooperation, as well as science and technology.
Fransman said the high-level consultations were an important structured mechanism to regulate bilateral relations and consult on a broad range of international issues of mutual concern between the two countries.
“Deputy Minister Fransman applauded Switzerland for its keen interest in Africa, especially in the field of post-conflict reconstruction and development,” said the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).
SA and Switzerland are already involved in several peace-building initiatives in Mali, the Horn of Africa and the Great Lakes Region. Fransman and his Swiss counterpart, State Secretary for Foreign Affairs Yves Rossier said there was a need for the two countries to explore possible collaboration in this area. They further stressed the importance of civilian peace-building efforts.
Fransman acknowledged Switzerland’s firm commitment to multilateralism and respect for the rule of law, and reiterated South Africa’s demand for the reform of key international institutions of global governance.
Switzerland congratulated South Africa’s recent election to the United Nations Human Rights Council, which presents the country with an opportunity to further champion human rights issues.
“Fransman acknowledged the tangible benefits deriving from the bilateral relations with Switzerland, particularly in the field of job creation and vocational education and skills development.
“The 5th High-level Consultations enhanced relations between the two countries and established the focal points for future cooperation,” said DIRCO.
Fransman is on his way to Norway, where he will co-chair the inaugural High Level Consultations with his Norwegian counterpart, State Secretary Bard Glad Pedersen, on Thursday in Oslo. – SAnews.gov.za
