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27 Aug 2012

President Jacob Zuma will undertake a State Visit to the Republic of Botswana from 29 to 30 August 2012.

The visit follows the successful State Visit of President Seretse Khama Ian Khama, to South Africa in October 2010, during which the two countries reviewed progress in various areas of bilateral cooperation.

South Africa and Botswana enjoy very strong historical, economic, social, political and neighbourly relations, which were deepened during South Africa's struggle for liberation. There are also family ties with inter-marriages between South Africans and the Botswana which further deepen relations between the two countries.

The visit is expected to focus on key areas such as trade and investment, energy, transport, science and technology, environment and security issues. It will also emphasise the need to invest in infrastructure development, especially the need for the two countries to work together on large scale projects such as cross border infrastructure, industrial and energy developments.

Strong economic ties already exist between the two countries and South Africa remains Botswana's major trading partner. South African companies have a huge presence in Botswana and are involved in various sectors, including mining, housing, food and beverages, construction, retail, hotels and leisure, banking and medical services.

Among agreements scheduled to be signed include Binational Commission at a Presidential level, under which relations will be structured going forward.

President Zuma will be accompanied by the Ministers of International Relations and Cooperation, Energy, Trade and Industry, Transport, Water and Environmental Affairs, Science and Technology as well as Defence and Military Veterans.

A multi-sectoral business delegation will also accompany the President to meet with their Batswana counterparts.

Enquiries:
Mac Maharaj
Cell: 079 879 3203
E-mail: macmaharaj@mweb.co.za or mediaenquiries@po.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
27 Aug 2012

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