South Africa is planning to expand its market for ASEAN commodities in order to make the most of newfound stability in the global economy.

At a working session with members of the ASEAN Pretoria Committee (APC) in Cape Town, Pretoria on February 15, South African First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ebrahim Ismail Ebrahim said his country pays special attention to all-around cooperation with ASEAN and wishes to strengthen their ties, especially in trade and investment.

According to him, two-way trade has topped 10 billion USD, which remains modest and short of potential.

South Africa is also looking forward to facilitating exchange of all-level delegations with ASEAN member countries. It plans to invite representatives of Myanmar’s legislature to the country to share experience and bolster ties between the two parliaments, he noted.

APC President – Vietnamese Ambassador to South Africa Le Huy Hoang congratulated the South African Government on its socio-economic achievements under the leadership of the ANC party. He said he hopes their upcoming general election in May will be a success.

Delegates at the event shared opinions on how to boost the ASEAN – South Africa affiliation, especially in politics, economics, investment, trade, tourism and education, towards a stronger link between the bloc and African nations.

While in Cape Town, Hoang and ASEAN diplomats attended the New Year opening of the South African Parliament.

They also joined in sessions where key political figures, including South African President Jacob Zuma, introduced future investment chances and tourism in the country.

(Source: VNA)