President Zuma yesterday wrapped up his working visit to Malabo, highlighting the decision to establish a permanent secretariat to streamline the work of the Africa-South America group (ASA) moving forward and align it fully with the African Union (AU).

The historical reality is that these countries were under Spain whereas in Africa only one country was colonised by Spain but the working principle is South-South relations and the development of both regions.

The Secretariat will concretise these relations and take ASA forward. Brics (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) will meet in Africa for the first time and the significance must not be lost to the rest of Africa, thus an opportunity for the whole of Africa to benefit hence the invitation to other reps of African regions.

Departing Malabo, the President touched briefly on the signing ceremony regarding the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), to take place in Addis Ababa, thus addressing the problems in eastern part of that country. The United Nations (UN) AU and others involved will all sign to guarantee peace and stability in that region.

Issued by: The Presidency