South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo are looking to consolidate their relations. Delegations from both nations are attending the 10th Session of the Bi-National Commission in Pretoria.
South Africa and the DRC launched the Bi-National Commission in 2004 leading to the signing of the General Cooperation Agreement – which enjoins the two countries to promote political, economic and social cooperation.
After two decades of bilateral cooperation, the two countries have re-committed to working together to improve their partnership in various fields.
Maite Nkoana-Mashabane minister of International Relations and Cooperation says, “While we are happy with the progress we continue to make in some of the projects, we however, need to highlight that the implementation of other projects is lagging behind. We therefore need to double our collective efforts and deal with all constraints that stand in the way.”
The two countries have been collaborating with each other since 1997. This when former President Nelson Mandela facilitated a meeting between the late Presidents Mobutu Seseko and Desire Kabila.
DRC Minister of Foreign Affairs Leonard She Okitundu says, “The bilateral relations between the two countries are considered of major importance between our countries. SA and DRC have enormous potential and wealth to even create more jobs.”
The agreements reached between the two countries will be presented to the Heads of State when they meet on Sunday.
President Jacob Zuma will be meeting his counterpart from DRC President Joseph Kabila who is in the country on an official visit.
A moment of silence in respect of the late former President of Botswana Sir Ketumile Masire was observed.
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– By Lehana Tsotetsi
