SA, Namibia to review strategic projects
President Thabo Mbeki is departing for Namibia today, Tuesday, to meet with his counterpart in the Namib to evaluate and review progress made on existing bilateral strategic projects.
Mbeki will be leading a delegation for the South Africa-Namibia Heads of State Economic Bilateral Commission, reported the Department of Foreign Affairs.
“President Mbeki is undertaking the visit within the context of South Africa's commitment to strengthening bilateral economic relations with Namibia and within the broad framework of advancing the African agenda.
“The Heads of State Bilateral Economic Forum will allow President Mbeki and Namibian President Hifikepunye Pohamba an opportunity to preside over the review of progress made with regard to strategic projects between the two countries,” said the department.
The Economic Bilateral Commission further serves as a platform for reinforcing bilateral economic relations between South Africa and its north western neighbour.
Sectors to be discussed during the commission include trade and industry; agriculture; energy; the environment and tourism; science and technology; and transport and communications.
South Africa is one of Namibia's most important economic partners, with bilateral trade between South Africa and Namibia accounting for two thirds of Namibia's total foreign trade.
The strategic relations between South Africa and Namibia are further enhanced by the two countries' membership of the Southern African Customs Union and the Common Monetary Union.
South Africa and Namibia are part of the Southern African Development Community Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) configuration that is negotiating with the European Union Commission.
Both South Africa and Namibia believe EPAs need to foster regional integration and development, and that amendments to the existing EPA is necessary.
Article published courtesy of BuaNews
