Motlanthe to meet new British govt

2010-09-14 16:10

Johannesburg – Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe will establish ties with Britain's new coalition government during a two-day visit, the presidency said on Tuesday.

He would meet Britain's Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg and its new Minister for Africa Henry Bellingham, presidential spokesperson Vusi Mona said in a statement.

"The deputy president is expected to raise several issues which will include developments in the African continent and the promotion of the African agenda as a cornerstone of South Africa's foreign policy," he said.

The visit would also provide a platform for the countries to cement and strengthen diplomatic relations and broaden economic and commercial interaction.

South Africa and Britain are to hold a bilateral forum next year.

Mona said that, during the visit, Motlanthe would thank Britain for its support during the World Cup and would gather support for South Africa's bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN's Security Council.

He would also address The Economist's Emerging Markets Summit.

Motlanthe is accompanied by Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan, Mineral Resources Minister Susan Shabangu and International Relations and Co-operation's Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim.

Mona said Gordhan would participate in a panel discussion and meet investors. Shabangu would meet mining sector officials to clarify South Africa's mining laws and address any concerns.

- SAPA