Johannesburg — Britain and Denmark have committed themselves to ensuring the success of the World Summit for Sustainable Development in meetings with Foreign Affairs Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma.

Speaking to Sapa from London, department spokesman Ronnie Mamoepa that bilateral talks with her counterparts in those countries were part of a national thrust led by President Thabo Mbeki to find common ground and build global consensus ahead of the summit.

The two European countries also said they would send "high-level delegations", Mamoepa said.

The event is scheduled to be held in Johannesburg in August and September.

"Both Britain and Denmark have committed themselves to working with South Africa towards ensuring a successful summit while also building upon the foundations laid by (the World Trade Organisation meetings) at Monterrey and Doha.

"The ministers discussed issues around market access, agricultural subsidies, human rights and good governance and a balance between political, economic and environmental issues," Mamoepa said.

Zuma proceeds from Europe to Canada where she will prepare for President Thabo Mbeki's visit to the G8 summit this week.

At the summit, Mbeki will announce the details of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (Nepad).