The United Kingdom would continue to encourage investors to take advantage of the opportunities offered by black economic empowerment, a ministerial delegation led by Foreign Secretary Jack Straw stated on Thursday.
In a joint communiqué at end of the sixth meeting of the South Africa United Kingdom Bilateral Forum the countries welcomed the continuing increase in trade.
Bilateral trade reached 6,28-billion pounds in 2003, the statement said, and the UK remained the largest foreign investor in South Africa.
Moreover, over 200 South African companies had established themselves in the UK.
UK Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said during its EU presidency his country would try to increase EU support for the African Union and Pan African Parliament.
After an ”extensive exchange of views on multilateral trade issues” the two parties agreed that global trade negotiations were vital to the growth of the world economy, and in the interest of all countries.
They also noted an agricultural agreement providing greater market access for developing countries, and less ”trade distorting support” was essential for the economic development of African countries, as well as the credibility of the World Trade Organisation.
Thirteen ministers participated in the talks. Straw delivered a keynote speech at the Nelson Mandela Gateway centre, and the British delegation visited Langa township, Khayelitsha and Robben Island.
There was general agreement on matters of foreign interest, and the UK expressed its support for South Africa’s peace-keeping activities in Africa.
South Africa, in turn, applauded the UK for its increased spending in developmental assistance in Africa.
Regarding Zimbabwe, the ministers acknowledged the importance of the forthcoming elections. They agreed that no lasting solution would be found unless it came from the people of Zimbabwe themselves.
Health Minister Dr Manto Tshabalala-Msimang and Minister for Health, John Hutton, said a co-operative agreement between the countries was already bearing fruit.
Hutton agreed to work to address the impact of migration of South African health care professionals to the country.
Both countries supported the development of an effective defence force in the countries, while deploring the misuse of force in international and regional conflicts.
Internationally the UK and South Africa would continue to co-operate in combating terrorism, resolving conflicts, and eradicating poverty and underdevelopment.
The next meeting will take place in the UK in 2005. – Sapa