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31 October 2007

The Premier of Gauteng Mbhazima Shilowa has signed an agreement with the Governor of the Katanga province Moise Katumbi Chapwe to promote trade and investment between the two provinces.

The declaration of intent, signed during a visit by the Premier to the Katanga province on Tuesday, 30 October 2007, proposes a twinning arrangement between the two economic powerhouses and co-operation to promote economic development, science, technology, sport, culture, education and health. It also envisages exchanges in expertise to build skills capacity in the Katanga province and training for administrative official.

The Premier describes the signing of the agreement as "the beginning of a journey to be travelled by the two provinces" to respond to the challenges of poverty, unemployment and underdevelopment. The twinning agreement we are signing must be used attain these goals. At the same time we must use the agreement to strengthen the structures of government," said Shilowa.

He said Gauteng and Katanga had important roles in the national life of the people in South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo. If we want to grow the economy of South Africa, we have to grow the economy of Gauteng more. Similarly if we want to grow the economy of the Democratic Republic of Congo, we have to grow the economy of Katanga more," said Shilowa.

Governor Chapwe said the declaration of intent between the two provinces provided Katanga with a precious opportunity to realise its potential in tourism, agriculture, mining and electricity supply. It marked the start of a new political era that will see the development of a new co-operative zone through the exchange of expertise in different fields.

He said his government intended to promote, in the best interest of its people, exchanges in health, education and the creation of small-scale enterprises to create employment and for the achievement of social stability. The two leaders also agreed on the hosting of a trade and investment summit to expose investors in both provinces to investment opportunities and to provide a platform for the establishment of business linkages.

During his short visit, the Premier was taken on a tour of inspection to projects that South African companies were involved in. These included projects in mining and in real estate.

Enquiries:
Simon Zwane
Cell: 082 551 9892

Issued by: Office of Premier, Gauteng Provincial Government
31 October 2007