Closing Remarks by Deputy Minister Marius Fransman during the Second Ministerial Political Consultations

Your Excellency, Swiss State Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Mr Yves Rossier
Your Excellency, Ambassador George Johannes, Ambassador of the Republic of South Africa to the Swiss Confederation
Your Excellency, Ambassador Christian Meuwly, Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to the Republic of South Africa
Members of the South African delegation
Members of the Swiss delegation
Ladies and gentlemen.

I would like to thank my colleague, State Secretary Rossier, his delegation as well my delegation for the fruitful discussions that were conducted here today.

Judging from the discussions that emanated here today, I can convincingly say that the South Africa-Swiss relationship is going from strength to strength.

We applaud Switzerland for its keen interest in the development of the African continent, especially in the field of post-conflict reconstruction and development and we will continue liaise with our Swiss partners on African issues of mutual concern.

We reaffirm our commitment to multilateralism and respect for the international rule of law and joins Switzerland in advocating for a collective response to challenges facing the international community of nations, especially in relation to reform of key international institutions of global governance, climate change and the protection of women and children.

Our relationship can only go from strength to strength.

I thank you.