The visit is expected to advance co-operation across a range of sectors, with a strong focus on trade and investment opportunities.

During his stay, Mashatile will attend the SA-France Investment Conference, where efforts will be intensified to deepen collaboration in infrastructure development, science, technology and innovation, as well as education and skills enhancement. A key goal is also to build on the robust people-to-people links between the two nations and to encourage increased tourism from France to SA

This trip comes on the heels of International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola’s recent role as co-Chair of the ninth session of the political dialogue forum between the two countries, a platform that has been instrumental in fostering closer diplomatic ties.

France currently stands as SA’s 14th largest investor, with around 400 French companies active in sectors ranging from financial services to renewable energy, rail, chemicals, and oil and gas.

--ChannelAfrica--