Premier E S Magashule will next week lead a high-powered delegation comprising Members of the Executive Council and local business people on a working visit to the People’s Republic of China. Magashule will be accompanied by MECs Mxolisi Dukwana for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Fezi Ngumbentombi for Public Works and Rural Development, Mamiki Qabathe for Agriculture and Sisi Ntombela for Social Development.
The delegation will visit various provinces in China: Gaung Dong, Jiangsu, Anhui, Shaanxi and Jiangxi from 28 April to 11 May 2010. The visit is a result of bilateral relations that exist between the Free State Provincial Government and China. The Free State government signed Letter of Intent on Friendly Exchanges and Cooperation and a Joint Communiqué with Jiangsu Province between 1998 and 2000.
During his working visit, Premier Magashule and his delegation will pay courtesy calls to the governors of all the provinces of China which the Free State Provincial Government has relations. Magashule will discuss the implementation plans with his Chinese counterparts where Arrangements for cooperation have been signed. While in China, Magashule and his delegation will also attend the official opening of the 2010 World Cup Expo and South Africa Pavilion in Shangai.
Premier Magashule will also explore economic opportunities as part of the drive to ensure foreign direct investment in the Free State. The Free State Province and China has already developed strong economic ties with China. A Chinese business consortium is currently developing a R45 million fish hatchery at Gariep Dam. The project will create much needed jobs in the province. An additional R15 million is to be given each year for three years.
The hatchery will also be used to advance research, providing a facility for agricultural scientists, technicians and farmers to test new farming methodologies.
Enquiries:
Wisani Ngobeni
Cell: 072 594 9099
Thabang Mokoka
Cell: 082 947 5171
Issued by: Office of the Premier, Free Sate Provincial Government
26 April 2010
