AMN / NEW DELHI
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa today held talks on bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest here.
In his press statement, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, visit of the South African President is crucial. He said, all bilateral issues including trade and investment were discussed.
The Prime Minister said India is a partner in South Africa’s skill development programme. He added that India and South Africa have agreed to take the relationship to a newer level.
Mr Modi highlighted that India and South Africa are partners in several international fora like BRICS and IBSA. He said it is a matter of pride for India that Mr Ramaphosa will witness the Republic Day parade on Saturday.
In his press statement, Mr Ramaphosa said India is a strategic partner for South Africa. He said, South Africa attaches the highest importance to its relations with India and considerable scope exist to deepen bilateral relations at an economic level. He said trade relations should reach a higher level between the two countries.
Mr Ramaphosa reached New Delhi this morning on a two-day visit to India. Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri had received the visiting dignitary upon his arrival.
President Ramaphosa was accorded ceremonial reception at forecourts of Rashtrapati Bhavan. Talking to media in New Delhi, the South African President said, he is happy to be in India as the two countries enjoy age-old linkages.
Mr. Cyril Ramaphosa will be the Chief Guest at the Republic Day Parade on Saturday. Mr. Ramaphosa is the second President of South Africa after Nelson Mandela to be the Chief Guest at the parade.
President Ramaphosa along with Prime Minister Modi will also address the India-South Africa Business Forum today with the objective to grow business ties between the two countries.
Mr Ramaphosa will also deliver the Gandhi-Mandela Freedom Lecture organized by Indian Council of World Affairs under IBSA framework as a part of the celebrations of the 15th Anniversary of IBSA.
President Ram Nath Kovind will host At Home Reception in honour of the visiting dignitary in the evening tomorrow.