Media Statement
18 June 2023
Minister Pandor to host the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs
The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will on Monday, 19 June 2023, receive her counterpart from the French Republic, Ms Catherine Colonna, who is undertaking a Working Visit to South Africa.
The Working Visit will provide an opportunity for both Ministers to deepen engagement and discussion on various topics of mutual interest, including regional and international issues.
During the visit, a Protocol on Cooperation regarding Cyber Forensic investigations and the Fight Against Corruption between South Africa and France will be signed by Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Mr Ronald Lamola, and Minister Colonna.
Relations between South Africa and France are underpinned by strong cooperation at national, regional, and multilateral levels across a multitude of sectors. The two countries cooperation in the following, among other areas: energy; science and technology; defence; trade and investment; arts and culture; tourism; higher education and training; and health.
France is a key investor in South Africa and has shown strong support in the first three South African Investment Conferences. A commitment of R20 billion in 2019 was fully invested by 2021, and a new commitment of R50 billion was made in 2022.
French companies present in South Africa have contributed close to 100 000 jobs for South Africans and also offer vocational and other training opportunities to strengthen capacity in numerous fields.
French companies play a key role in the maintenance and life extension of the Koeberg Nuclear Power Station, which is critical to ensuring energy security in South Africa.
Globally, France is South Africa’s 12th largest source of imports with 2022 figures at R34,2 billion and 27th largest export destination with 2022 exports of R13,4 billion. The main products traded were minerals, vehicles, vegetables, iron/steel products, chemicals, machinery and prepared foods.
The two ministers will brief the media at the conclusion of their meeting.
The media are invited as follows:
Date: Monday, 19 June 2023
Venue: OR Tambo Building, 460 Soutpansberg Road, Rietondale
Time: 13h00
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
0084