Statement at the conclusion of Bilateral Consultations between the President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Jacob Zuma and the President of the Republic of Mozambique, Mr Armando Guebuza
12 February 2013
The President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Mr Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma, hosted His Excellency Mr. Armando Guebuza, President of the Republic of Mozambique, in Pretoria on 12 February 2013.
The two leaders met within the context of the enhanced bilateral cooperation between their respective countries. During their talks, the two leaders reviewed a wide range of bilateral, regional and international issues. They expressed great satisfaction at the warm and fraternal relations that exist between their two countries and committed themselves to further deepen these historical and cultural relations for the mutual benefit of their respective countries and peoples.
The two leaders underscored the need to further enhance and strengthen the existing bilateral cooperation between the two countries under the framework of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) which is a strategic mechanism which is used to coordinate bilateral cooperation and partnership between the two countries.
During the meeting, President Guebuza briefed President Zuma about the floods that have devastated parts of Mozambique. Furthermore, President Guebuza expressed his gratitude for South Africa’s rescue operation and humanitarian assistance during the floods by availing two helicopters and two fixed wings aircraft.
In this connection, President Zuma expressed South Africa’s solidarity with President Guebuza and the people of Mozambique during these challenging times. Furthermore, President Zuma reiterated his confidence that the affected families and the entire population of Mozambique will unify in responding to these floods, as they have done previously.
On regional issues, the two leaders exchanged views on the prevailing political, economic and security situation in the region. In this context, President Guebuza briefed President Zuma about the outcomes of the SADC Extra Ordinary Summit which he hosted on Friday, 8 February 2013. The two leaders re-affirmed their commitment to work together in pursuit of regional peace and security.
On continental and international issues, the two leaders expressed their commitment to African unity and integration. They reiterated their common view on the need to reform the multilateral institutions including the United Nations Security Council and the Bretton Woods Institutions to better represent the interests of the developing countries.
President Guebuza congratulated South Africa on hosting a successful 29th edition of the African Cup of Nations; also known as the Orange Africa Cup of Nations, held from 19 January to 10 February 2013.
Furthermore, President Guebuza expressed his gratitude to President Zuma, the government and the people of the Republic of South Africa for the warm welcome and fraternal reception accorded to him and his delegation during the visit.
Enquiries: Mac Maharaj on 079 879 3203 or macmaharaj@icloud.com.
Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
