Mnangagwa embarks on first state visit to SA

from SAVIOUS KWINIKA in Johannesburg, South
JOHANNESBURG, (CAJ News) – ZIMBABWEAN President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, is embarking on his first visit to neighbouring South Africa following his inauguration last month.

He will meet South African counterpart, Jacob Zuma, at his official residence in Tshwane.

According to a statement from Zuma’s office, during the courtesy call, the two heads of state will share perspectives on various issues of mutual importance, such as, regional, continental and international developments.

Mnangwagwa is also scheduled to meet entrepreneurs eager to explore investments in his country after recent political changes.

Among issues set to be discussed include the political development in Zimbabwe after the military masterminded the ouster of longtime leader, Robert Mugabe.

Ironically, Mnangagwa met Zuma ahead of his (Mnangagwa’s) return to Zimbabwe from where he had been forced to flee after alleged death threats received when Mugabe dismissed him for allegedly plotting a coup.

South Africa and Zimbabwe enjoy cordial bilateral relations underpinned by strong historical and political bonds that date back to the era of the liberation struggle.

The significance of these relations are marked by the annual convening of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) signed in 2015 and co-chaired by the two Heads of State.

Mugabe attended the previous session of the BNC held in South Africa on October.

Trade between the two countries has seen exponential growth over the years with Zimbabwe being one of South Africa’s top five trading partners in the Region and the Continent.

South African exports to Zimbabwe in 2016 were worth R29,3 billion (US$2,3 billion).

– CAJ News