By invitation of the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Max Sisulu, Chairman Wu Bangguo and his delegation are visiting Parliament to strengthen inter-parliamentary relations between China and South Africa. Speaker Sisulu and a delegation of Chairpersons of Portfolio Committees paid a visit to China in November 2010.
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in 2006 between our two Parliaments lays the foundation for greater cooperation between us. With the signing of the Declaration on the Establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in August 2010 during the State Visit by President Jacob Zuma and his counterpart, President Hu Jintao, it has become crucial that our respective Parliaments forge closer links to ensure implementation and oversight of this agreement.
Our talks with Chairman Wu Bangguo will focus on strengthening bilateral relations between the two Parliaments and give effect to the modalities of implementing the mutually agreed areas of cooperation. Therefore, the South African delegation will include the Chairpersons of the following committees: International Relations and Cooperation, Trade and Industry, Energy, Finance and Budgeting, Higher Education, Science and Technology and Rural Development and Land Reform.
The programme of the Chinese delegation will include a bilateral engagement with the Speaker of the National Assembly and selected Chairpersons of Portfolio Committees, an address to an assembly of Members of Parliament, a courtesy call on the President of the Republic of South Africa, a courtesy call on the Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces, and a meeting with a delegation of business people.
Photo opportunities will include:
25 May 2011
09h25: The Chairman and principal members of the delegation arrive at Parliament via the Good Hope entrance and is received on the steps of the Good Hope Building by the Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr MV Sisulu, Member of Parliament.
10h45: Signing of the distinguished guest book and exchange of gifts, Protea Lounge, Good Hope Chamber.
14h00: The ceremonial procession to the National Assembly Chamber and the address of an assembly of Members of Parliament by Chairman Wu Bangguo.
26 May 2011
09h00: The Chairman and delegation arrive at the National Council of Province, at Parliament, via the Ceremonial Entrance and are received on the steps of the NCOP entrance by the Chairperson, Mr MJ Mahlangu, MP.
Media wishing to attend the visit should RSVP with:
Nolizwi Magwagwa
E-mail: nmagwagwa@parliament.gov.za
Tel: 021 403 2465
Cell: 083 313 1323
Source: Parliament of South Africa
