Johannesburg - Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe is
satisfied that his diplomatic visit to the Republic of Guinea-Bissau has
strengthened ties between the two countries, the presidency said on Thursday.
"The delegations expressed their intention to
strengthen bilateral trade relations and committed to the speedy conclusion of
the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment Agreement," said
spokesperson Terrence Manase in a statement.
Motlante visited Guinea-Bissau on Tuesday and Wednesday with
a delegation to reaffirm diplomatic ties.
During the visit, it was resolved that a joint bilateral
co-operation commission should be established as soon as possible.
The advantages of co-operation between the countries in the
field of health was also discussed and an agreement to this effect was signed
by the relevant ministers.
A trilateral agreement including Cuba was proposed in the
form of the Nelson Mandela, Fidel Castro, Amilcar Cabral Trilateral
Co-operation Project. This project would enhance capacity and training at the
Raul Diaz Arguelles Faculty of Medicine in the Republic of Guinea-Bissau.
During the visit Motlanthe visited Amura Fortress, where he
laid a wreath at the mausoleum of Amilcar Cabral, the founder of the Guinean
nation. He paid tribute to the heroes of the liberation struggle.
Motlanthe paid a courtesy call to President Malam Bacai
Sanhá of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau.
"South Africa committed itself to continued support for
the government's efforts to strengthen stability, consolidation of democracy,
and sustainable development in the republic...," said Manase.
Both countries agreed there was a need to increase the
number of African members of the United Nations Security Council.
They also urged Libyan leaders to engage in dialogue as
recommended in the 'Roadmap of the African Contact Group'.
The South African delegation agreed to assess a request to
assist the electoral process of Guinea-Bissau.