Media Statement
18 March 2023
Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini concludes successful Working Visit to West Africa
The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has concluded her Working Visit to the Republics of Benin and Togo.
Deputy Minister begun her tour in Benin, where she held successful talks with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Mr Agbenonci. The two delegations reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthen bilateral relations between South Africa and Benin.
Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini emphasised the importance to deepen trade and investment relations as well as stronger people-to-people relations.
South Africa and Benin have various agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs), which are at advanced stages of negotiations and include the Partnership Agreement in the field of Social Development and Bilateral Air Services Agreement.
At the conclusion of her visit to Cotonou, Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini visited the Glo-Dijgbe Industrial Zone, where she received a presentation on possible partnership and investment opportunities for South African businesses.
South Africa and Benin have enjoyed excellent diplomatic relations since the signing of the Agreement on Diplomatic Relations in May 1994.
In Togo, the Deputy Minister met with the Secretary General of the Minister in charge of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr Afo Salifou. The Deputy Minister and Mr Salifou’s meeting discussed ways to explore new areas of cooperation between the two countries with a view of strengthen bilateral cooperation in line with the Framework for Cooperation Agreement which was signed in December 2019.
Whilst in Togo, Deputy Minister also held meetings with the Minsters of Investment and Promotion, Ms Rose MIVEDOR; and the Minister of Trade, Industry and Local Consumption, Mr Kodgo ADEDZE. The two meetings focused on deepening trade and investment relations between the two countries to radically transform the agricultural sector.
South Africa and Togo enjoy good diplomatic relations. These relations were formally established with the signing of the Declaration of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations in January 1997.
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5974
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