Pretoria, ANGOLA, November 24 - South Africa’s president Jacob Zuma spoke of the need to boost more the trade for the private sector. ,

 

 

Jacob Zuma made the appeal at the opening of official talks with his Angolan counterpart, João Lourenço, on Friday in Pretoria.

 

In his speech, the South African president highlighted the historical links to improve the existing bilateral cooperation, adding that  much can be done more for the development of the two countries.

 

Trade between Angola and South Africa dropped to USD 2.4 billion in 2016, represented to 75 percent, due to the economic and financial crisis the Portuguese-speaking country experiences.

 

Jacob Zuma also recognised the existing of various agreements and memoranda of understanding covering many areas.

 

According to him, the visit of his counterpart further deepens the feeling of brotherhood, particularly in the economic and social fields.

 

The host country's president defended the need to improve this trade cooperation, with more incentives for investment in the private sector in each country's economies.

 

He stated that South Africa and Angola need explore more opportunities in agriculture, mining, infrastructure development, energy, tourism , among others.

 

Stress also went to the strengthening of cultural, scientific and technological cooperation, adding that the historical past in the relationship between the two countries should be used to encourage exchanges between peoples.

 

The Statesman also highlighted the values ​​of democracy, respect for human rights, social justice and international law practiced by the two nations of Southern Africa.

 

According to him, these principles are crucial to our cooperation as we work together in SADC, the African Union and the system of the United Nations. "

 

Zuma congratulated Angola on its election chair of Organisation for Defence of Community Policy and Security Cooperation for Development of Southern African Countries (SADC).

 

The South African president thanked the Angolan counterpart João Lourenço for choosing South Africa for his first state visit since he came into office last August.

 

He also praised ex-President of Angola José Eduardo dos Santos for his "invaluable contribution to develop Angola as an independent state.

 

Also for his excellent contribution to the liberation of southern Africa against colonialism and apartheid. "

 

On the other hand, the situation in Zimbabwe was also highlighted in the speech delivered by the two statesmen.

 

Jacob Zuma said one of the region's sister countries is facing a difficult political situation, which led to resignation of President Mugabe and the election of Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was sworn in Friday in Harare.

 

They congratulate President Mnangagwa and expressed hope that with the support by people of Zimbabwe, he will be able to lead the country successfully during this transition period.

 

Zuma also paid tribute to the former Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe for his contribution to South Africa's liberation struggles against colonialism and apartheid.

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