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Communiqué on President Mbeki's working visit to Swaziland
24 April 2008
President Mbeki paid a working visit to the Kingdom of Swaziland from 23 April 2008 to 24 April 2008, at the invitation of His Majesty King Mswati III. During his visit, the President was received in audience by their Majesties King Mswati III and the Ndlovukazi.
The President and the delegation met and held discussions with their counterparts during their meeting at the Lozitha Royal Palace. The meeting was co-chaired by both President Mbeki and His Majesty King Mswati III. The meeting reviewed all aspects of relations between the two neighbouring countries and underlined the need to further develop and deepen bilateral, political, trade and economic spheres. The two leaders further shared information and perspective on regional, multilateral and matters of mutual interest.
In this regard they inter alia:
Expressed their satisfaction at the existing co-operation between the two countries in all spheres of national endeavour, including trade and economic development and reaffirmed the need to further expand and deepen them. They had further underlined the need for continuous dialogue and to fast-track the operationalisation of the Joint Bilateral Co-operation Commission which was signed by the two countries in December 2004 in Swaziland.
The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment towards the strengthening of regional development efforts such as the development and exploration of water resources such as the Drie Koppies/Maguga Water Development project, Usutu Water Development Schemes as well as the Spatial Development initiative for the improvement of tourism and economic development.
They discussed the importance of improving the hospitality industry in both countries and other tourism opportunities to display to visitors during the 2010 FIFA World Cup. This will assist in attracting investors to the two countries and result in economic expansion.
Lastly, the President and his delegation expressed their deep appreciation to their Majesties, King Mswati III, the Queen Mother and the people of Swaziland for the warm welcome and cordial respect accorded to them during their stay in the Kingdom.
Issued by: The Presidency
24 April 2008
Source: The Presidency (http://www.thepresidency.gov.za)