The InfoStride Forum

NEWS and REPORTS => World News => Topic started by: iolsa on May 02, 2013, 05:30 AM

Title: Zuma heads to Congo for CAR talks
Post by: iolsa on May 02, 2013, 05:30 AM
Johannesburg - South African President Jacob Zuma and International Relations Minister Maite Nkoane-Mashabane would attend a meeting about the Central African Republic in the Congo.

"The president will undertake a working visit to the Republic of Congo to attend the contact group meeting on the Central African  Republic (CAR), scheduled for May 3," said Clayson Monyela, spokesperson for the International Relations Department, in a statement.

The political and security situation in the CAR would be discussed at the meeting.

"At the last gathering, delegates and the government of the CAR decided that... it would convene a meeting in Congo to further determine the way forward to restoring stability, security, respect for human rights and democracy in the CAR."

On Sunday, Zuma said the country's foreign policy regarding the embattled CAR remained unchanged.

He said South Africa recognised the CAR's transitional government, based on the January 2013 agreement ceasefire signed in  Libreville, Gabon.

Thirteen South African soldiers were killed and 27 wounded on March 23 when they were attacked by Seleka rebel fighters near the CAR capital of Bangui.

CAR president Francois Bozize was ousted by the rebels.

In December, Zuma sent Defence Minister Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula to the CAR to assess the security environment and general situation which became tense after the Seleka rebel coalition launched an armed campaign.

The report from that mission recommended an intervention.

On January 2, Zuma authorised the deployment of up to 400 South African soldiers to the CAR, but only 200 were sent.

Zuma said South Africa and the CAR had signed a military co-operation agreement in 2007. This was renewed for a further five-years in December 2012.

That agreement entailed provision of military training to the CAR army and refurbishment of military infrastructure. - Sapa



IOLSA
Title: Re: Zuma heads to Congo for CAR talks
Post by: Folami David on May 02, 2013, 08:04 PM
Most of our presidents don't do this especially those ruling Africa. I just hope it's all for the development of Africa as a continent.