The 49th Feira International De Maputo (Facim), an international exhibition currently taking place in Maputo, can further deepen relations between Mozambique and South Africa. This was said by the Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Ms Elizabeth Thabethe at the official opening of the South African National Pavilion in Maputo, Mozambique, today.
“Through the Facim exhibitions South Africa and Mozambique can enjoy good economic benefits that can further complement the work that has been done over the years by both countries. When we speak of regional integration and intra-trade among African states we are also referring to such platforms that people take for granted,” said Thabethe.
Thabethe also said Mozambique is a key and strategic partner in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). Therefore businesspeople from both countries should get an opportunity to identify investment opportunities.
“Our job as government is to make sure that we create a conducive environment for business people to operate, to look for other opportunities elsewhere, and also attract investment in our country,” she added.
The Deputy Minister of Industry and Commerce in Mozambique Mr Kenneth Marizane said Facim should be used as an opportunity for South African businesses to invest in Mozambique.
“We expect the agreement we signed with South Africa to be fruitful in the long run and benefit both countries. Mozambique can learn a lot from South Africa in the region and follow in their footsteps in the number of projects that they have already accomplished,” said Marizane.
The exhibitions which started on 26 August will end on 1 September 2013.
Enquiries:
Sidwell Medupe
Departmental Spokesperson
Tel: 012 394 1650
Cell: 079 492 1774
E-mail: MSMedupe@thedti.gov.za
