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28 Jan 2012

President Jacob Zuma arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, last night, 27 January 2012, where he is leading a high-level South African Government delegation to the 18th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Assembly, scheduled to take place from 29 to 30 January under the theme: "Boosting Intra-African Trade”.

The Summit will reflect on the recommendations of the 7th Ordinary Session of the African Union Conference of Ministers of Trade which was charged with the task of preparing the ground work for discussions around the theme, "Boosting Intra-African Trade”. The high-level political discussion on issues relating to continental integration and intra-African trade present an opportunity for South Africa to lead and shape the approach and future agenda on these important areas.

Given the increased prominence of African peace and security issues on the world stage, the Summit will also focus on key peace and security issues, as well as matters pertaining to post-conflict reconstruction.

Also featuring prominently during this year's Summit will be the elections for the AU Commission (AUC). South Africa has nominated the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, for the position of Chairperson of the AUC. Government remains optimistic that Minister Dlamini Zuma will receive the necessary votes.

Today, 28 January 2012, the 26th New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) Heads of State and Government Orientation Committee meets at the level of Heads of State and Government to consider various aspects of the work of NEPAD.

President Zuma is supported in Addis Ababa by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane; the Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma; the Minister of State Security, Dr Siyabonga Cwele; the Minister of Public Service and Administration responsible for the South African process related to the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), Mr Roy Padayachie.

Enquiries:
Mr Clayson Monyela, spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)
Cell: 082 884 5974.

Issued by: Department of International Relations and Cooperation
28 Jan 2012

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