SA, Uganda to discuss relations

19 Jan 2011

PRETORIA: President Jacob Zuma is to host his Ugandan counterpart, President Yoweri Museveni, in a state visit scheduled for Friday, 21 January 2011. The visit is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen relations that exist between the two countries, said the Department of International Relation and Cooperation.

The two presidents are expected to review progress on key areas of bilateral cooperation, which, among others, include agriculture, trade and investment, public works and infrastructural development, water and environmental affairs, energy, and social development.

"Views will also be exchanged on issues affecting the continent and the world, including political developments pertaining to the East Africa region, inter alia the Sudan Referendum, as well as global multilateral matters," the department said.

South Africa regards Uganda as a country with great economic potential and an important partner for its trade and investment. Also, in view of the country's solid economic performance, Uganda can be regarded as an important trading partner in East Africa. In 2009, South African exports to Uganda amounted to R1.2 billion and imports from Uganda to R155 million.

South Africa remains among the top five sources of foreign direct investment in Uganda. Close to 50 South African companies operate in Uganda and they are a substantial source of job creation and contributor to the revenue base.

It is expected that trade cooperation between the two countries would grow to greater heights against the backdrop of strengthened political relations.

Source: SAnews.gov.za

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