Yemen, South Africa hold official talks

SANA'A, Aug. 11 (Saba)- Chairman of Shura Council Abdul-Aziz
Abdul-Ghani and chairman of the South African National Council of
Provinces Mninwa Johannes Mahlangu affirmed on Monday the importance
of pushing relations between the two countries by means of joint
cooperation, specially in the economic and parliamentary fields.

During a talks session held in Sana'a, Abdul-Ghani welcomed the
South African official, wishing this visit contributes to
strengthening relations between Yemen and South Africa.

He said that "there are some cooperation agreements signed between
the two countries and it is important for the two sides to activate
them," noting that establishing a South African diplomatic
representation in Yemen, equivalent to that of Yemen in South
Africa, will boost cooperation relations between the two countries.

He pointed out to the importance of the Association of Senates,
Shoora and Equivalent Councils in Africa and the Arab World
(ASSECAA), of which he is the chairman, saying that it is the only
organization that opens a window for cooperation between the Arab
and African countries.

Abdul-Ghani expressed trust in the role of businessmen in achieving
this objective, noting to the meeting which will be held by chairmen
of commerce chambers of the ASSECAA member states in October in
South Africa.

He also talked about Yemen's efforts in deepening cooperation with
the African Horn countries.

For his part, Mahlangu expressed comfort for the current cooperation
between his country and Yemen, showing interest in the establishment
of a South African diplomatic representation in Yemen for better
cooperation between the two countries.

He made clear that the partnership agreement between the two
countries will be signed by Yemen and South Africa's foreign
ministers, expressing trust that the joint cooperation will be
augmented further in the light of this agreement.

As for relation between Yemen Shura Council and South Africa
National Council of Provinces, Mahlangu welcomed the suggested
cooperation agreement by Yemen, wishing that it is signed soon.

He affirmed the importance of cooperation between Arab and African
countries, welcoming the holding of meeting of commerce chambers of
the ASSECAA member states in his country.

Moreover, Mahlangu affirmed the importance of the political
intention to overcome tensions in the Arab and African regions,
noting that the African Parliament is one of the most parliaments
working to realize peace.