South Africa: Stronger Political, Business Ties on Agenda in Angola

PRESIDENT Jacob Zuma 's first state visit to Angola on Thursday ushers in a new era of relations -- not only between the two countries -- but also between Zuma and Angola's President Eduardo Dos Santos. The ruling MPLA in Angola and the African National Congress enjoyed historical relations as fraternal liberation movements. These deteriorated under former president Thabo Mbeki. It is hoped that Zuma's tenure will change this.

Angola has come under scrutiny over corruption, good governance and multiparty democracy, issues South African officials were at pains to say would not be ignored by the Zuma government in its dealings with Angola. The state visit, which will see an unprecedented number of business people accompany Zuma's large Cabinet entourage, signals new opportunities for South African business in areas such as gas, oil, gold and diamonds. Zuma will be supported by a bevy of ministers, including International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan, Public Enterprises Minister Barbara Hogan, Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies , Minerals Minister Susan Shabangu and Energy Minister Dipuo Peters.

The government is billing the visit as "the largest business delegation to take part in a state visit since 1994". It is expected a business conference will be hosted on the sidelines of the visit.n 2007 SA's exports to Angola amounted to R6bn while Angolan exports amounted to R12bn. Almost 90% of Angolan exports to SA in 2007 were petroleum related products, the Department of International Relations said.

Lindiwe Zulu, special adviser on international and foreign relations in the Presidency, told Business Day the binational commission between the two countries would be conducted at "head of state level" another indication that Angolan relations will be increased considerably during Zuma's tenure. "Relations should have been at this level from the very beginning. The two presidents will chair the sessions and South African and Angolan ministers will have one on one meetings concluding various memoranda of understanding," Zulu said. "You must remember that Angola also has important relations with Brazil and so do we. SA might want to look at trilateral agreements involving all three countries," Zulu said.

Source: AllAfrica