Paris: Deputy President Paul Mashatile concluded a successful working visit to the Republic of France, with a focus on enhancing South Africa’s bilateral relations with France, particularly in trade and investment.
According to South African Government News Agency, Deputy President Mashatile delivered the keynote address at the inaugural SA-France Investment Conference, themed ‘Advancing South Africa-France economic relations’. The conference saw participation from South African business leaders across various sectors, including finance, health, manufacturing, ICT, and more. The South African delegation presented an investment project book valued at US$40 billion, which received positive feedback.
In his address, the Deputy President urged business delegates to collaborate with the government to double trade within two years through attracting Foreign Direct Investment, establishing Public-Private Partnerships, and securing financial resources. He emphasized addressing issues such as unemployment, poverty, inequality, climate change, and digital economy shifts.
The Deputy President’s visit included strategic site visits to SUEZ Global Waste Management Company, R©gie Autonome des Transports Parisiens, and Dassault Syst¨mes, showcasing collaborations in water management, metro rail services, and aerospace and defense, respectively.
Deputy President Mashatile also participated in UNESCO’s Transforming MEN’talities campaign, aimed at engaging men and boys in gender equality efforts. On the diplomatic front, he held talks with French President Emmanuel Macron, focusing on enhancing trade, diplomatic ties, and multilateral cooperation. President Macron committed to attending the Group of 20 Leaders’ Summit with a delegation of business leaders.
Additionally, the Deputy President met with French Prime Minister Fran§ois Bayrou, who praised the success of the investment conference. The visit concluded with a visit to the Dulcie September Memorial Square, where a wreath was laid in memory of the anti-apartheid activist assassinated in Paris.