Category: MIL-OSI

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SACU leaders chart path for greater regional trade and growth

Source: Government of South Africa

SACU leaders chart path for greater regional trade and growth

South Africa has successfully concluded the 9th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), marking another significant milestone in advancing regional economic integration, industrialisation and sustainable development in Southern Africa.

The Summit brought together Heads of State and Government from Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Namibia and South Africa to assess progress on SACU’s strategic priorities and provide high-level political direction on strengthening regional cooperation, trade and industrial development.

Proceedings were preceded by a series of technical meetings, the Commission of Senior Officials, a Ministerial Retreat and the SACU Council of Ministers. During these engagements, Member States reaffirmed their shared commitment to building a diversified, competitive, sustainable and equitable industrial base capable of driving structural transformation and deeper regional integration.

Providing an overview of the Summit, Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau said the successful conclusion of the gathering reaffirmed SACU’s continued relevance as a catalyst for regional development and economic transformation.

“The outcomes of this Summit reaffirm our collective commitment to building a stronger, more industrialised and globally competitive SACU. As the world’s oldest functioning customs union, SACU continues to demonstrate that regional cooperation remains one of our greatest strengths in advancing inclusive growth, expanding trade and improving the lives of our people,” Tau said.

Tau said Member States had reaffirmed their commitment to positioning SACU as a powerful engine for regional integration, economic diversification, increased intra-regional trade and investment, policy harmonisation and sustainable economic growth.

He said the Summit further highlighted the urgent need to strengthen regional productive capacity, improve competitiveness and create a more enabling environment for investment and industrial expansion.

“Industrialisation remains at the heart of SACU’s development agenda. By strengthening regional value chains, promoting investment, improving trade facilitation and supporting productive industries, we are laying the foundation for sustainable economic growth, job creation and shared prosperity across Southern Africa,” Tau said.

Member States also recognised the importance of deepening cooperation in customs modernisation, trade facilitation, resource mobilisation and implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), while maintaining coordinated engagement on regional and global trade matters.

Tau said SACU must fully leverage opportunities presented by the AfCFTA and other preferential trade arrangements to diversify markets, expand value-added exports and strengthen participation in regional and continental value chains.

Using the analogy of preparing a traditional Southern African meal around a shared fire, Tau described SACU’s future as one that requires collective effort, patience and deliberate action.

“The future of SACU requires the right ingredients brought together through partnership and shared purpose. Industrialisation, investment promotion, trade facilitation, AfCFTA implementation, resource mobilisation and effective institutions are all essential ingredients in building a customs union that delivers meaningful benefits for our citizens,” he said.

Tau also expressed appreciation to the Chairperson of the SACU Council of Ministers and Finance Minister, Enoch Godongwana, for his leadership during the ministerial engagements.

He further congratulated SACU Executive Secretary Dumisani Masilela on his appointment, expressing confidence in his ability to lead the Secretariat into its next chapter.

The Summit reaffirmed SACU’s long-term vision of becoming a dynamic economic community that promotes equitable and sustainable development while strengthening regional competitiveness, industrial cooperation and economic resilience.

As South Africa concludes its hosting of the 9th SACU Summit, the country remains committed to working closely with fellow Member States, including incoming Summit Chair Botswana, to implement the decisions of the Summit and advance a reimagined SACU that drives industrialisation, investment, trade and inclusive economic development across the region. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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Regional Capacity-Building Workshop for Women Traders and Cross-Border Trade Stakeholders in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Region Concludes in Lomé

Source: APO


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The Acting Secretary-General of the ECOWAS Commission, Mr. Mua’zu Umaru, officially closed the Regional Capacity-Building Workshop for Women Cross-Border Traders and Cross-Border Trade Stakeholders from the twelve ECOWAS Member States in Lomé on Friday, 26 June 2026.

One of the key achievements of this regional meeting—held as a flagship activity of the ECOWAS Regional Fortnight on Women in Small-Scale Cross-Border Trade, taking place in Lomé from 18 to 28 June 2026—was the validation of the ECOWAS Gender and Trade Strategy 2026–2030 and its accompanying Action Plan. These strategic documents were developed on the basis of empirical data collected across five ECOWAS Member States.

“ECOWAS is committed to translating the new Gender and Trade Strategy into concrete actions at border posts, ensuring that it does not remain merely a policy document without tangible impact,” Mr. Mua’zu Umaru stated on behalf of the Commissioner for Human Development and Social Affairs, Professor Fatou Sow Sarr, during the closing ceremony.

Earlier, several speakers addressed the participants, including Professor Félix Nzué Fofana, Acting Director of Research and Statistics, representing Dr. Kalilou Sylla, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, as well as H.E. Deweh Emily Gray, ECOWAS Resident Representative in Togo. They commended the commitment of all stakeholders and welcomed the significant outcomes achieved during the workshop.

The capacity-building workshop once again highlighted the major challenges faced by women and young people engaged in small-scale cross-border trade across the ECOWAS region, while validating a shared vision for addressing these issues.

Discussions throughout the workshop confirmed that, despite their vital contribution to regional trade, women cross-border traders continue to face persistent obstacles, including informal payments, multiple checkpoints, limited access to finance, inadequate information on regional trade instruments, and insufficient infrastructure and protection mechanisms tailored to their needs. The workshop also emphasized that women’s traders’ associations remain the most effective channels for information dissemination, beneficiary support, and the implementation of field activities.

Participants stressed the need to move beyond political commitments by establishing a robust institutional framework supported by sustainable financing mechanisms, monitoring and evaluation systems, and accountability measures to ensure the effective implementation of the proposed actions. Particular attention should be given to reforming border governance, improving the safety and security of women traders, and strengthening their access to financial services and the opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

In conclusion, the Lomé meeting marked an important milestone in promoting a more inclusive, safer, and more competitive cross-border trading environment in West Africa. Participants reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the implementation of the new strategy through strengthened collaboration among ECOWAS institutions, Member States, technical and financial partners, and organizations representing women traders.

The next steps will focus on the formal adoption of the Strategy, the establishment of its governance structures, the mobilization of resources, and the launch of the first priority actions to translate the Forum’s recommendations into concrete results for the benefit of women and young traders across the region.

This flagship event of the Regional Fortnight benefited from the support of numerous partners, including the Government of Togo and the ECOWAS Permanent Representation in Togo, the Government of Germany through GIZ, the Support to the ECOWAS Commission in the Organisational Development (OD) Programme, the ECOWAS Agricultural Trade (EAT) Programme, and the Support to the ECOWAS Commission in the Implementation of the AfCFTA Project.

Additional contributions were provided by the Centre for Study and International Cooperation (CECI) through the Making Trade Work for Women in West Africa project, the International Trade Centre (ITC), WiLDAF, AOCTAH, ESBC, and the 50 Million African Women Speak Platform (50MAWSP).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

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President Herminie and Prime Minister (PM) Modi Elevate Seychelles-India Partnership through Signing of Nine Agreements

Source: APO


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President Dr. Patrick Herminie and Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi held bilateral talks at State House this morning, covering maritime security, development cooperation, clean energy, health, crime prevention, the creative industries, and people-to-people ties.

President Herminie reaffirmed progress in implementing the Joint Vision for Sustainability, Economic Growth and Security through Enhanced Linkages (SESEL), adopted in February this year. He highlighted Seychelles’ priorities in maritime security, reaffirming the country’s place within India’s MAHASAGAR vision and the joint commitment to combating piracy, drug trafficking, illegal fishing, and cross-border crime. He acknowledged India’s support in maritime surveillance, hydrography, and defence capacity-building, including the refit of PS Zoroaster and the gifting of Fast Attack Vessel PS Lespwar to the Seychelles Coast Guard.

On development, President Herminie expressed appreciation for India’s Special Economic Package of USD 175 million, comprising USD 125 million in a rupee-denominated Line of Credit and USD 50 million in grant assistance, to support priority projects in social housing, e-mobility, vocational training, health, defence, and maritime security. He welcomed cooperation in forensic science and crime technology in response to growing concerns over drug trafficking and crime, and emphasised the importance of advancing green hydrogen, ocean observation science, and expanded vocational and technical training for Seychellois youth. He also highlighted food security, parliamentary cooperation, and the strengthening of historic ties between the two nations as key areas of discussion.

Prime Minister Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to deepening the relationship, proposing direct shipping links, increased trade in local currencies, and greater connectivity to promote trade and tourism. He announced the gifting of six ambulances, access to affordable medicines under the Janaushadhi Scheme, and training for Seychellois medical personnel. India also committed to sports training, youth exchange, and promoting Seychelles as a creative and filming destination.

Both leaders participated in the virtual groundbreaking of the India-assisted Professional and Technical Education Centre and inaugurated three solar water pumping systems under the International Solar Alliance. They also jointly unveiled the commemorative logo marking 50 years of diplomatic relations.

Nine legal instruments were exchanged by Ministers and senior officials from both sides:

  1. Memorandum of Understanding between the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora of the Republic of Seychelles
  2. Memorandum of Understanding on the Recognition of Training and Certification of Seafarers for Service on Seychelles-Flagged Vessels between the Ministry of Transport, Ports and Civil Aviation of Seychelles and the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways of India
  3. Extradition Treaty between the Republic of Seychelles and the Republic of India
  4. Memorandum of Understanding between the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and the Agriculture Department of the Ministry of Fisheries, Agriculture and Blue Economy of Seychelles, together with the Workplan for 2026–2031
  5. Umbrella Line of Credit Agreement for INR 1,250 crores between the Ministry of Finance, Economic Planning, Trade and Investment of Seychelles and the Export-Import Bank of India
  6. Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Exploration and Uses of Outer Space for Peaceful Purposes
  7. Memorandum of Understanding on Preliminary Preparations for the New Seychelles National Hospital
  8. Memorandum of Understanding between M/s HLL Lifecare Limited and the Ministry of Health of Seychelles under the Janaushadhi Scheme
  9. Memorandum of Understanding between NPCI International Payments Limited and the Central Bank of Seychelles

President Herminie conferred upon Prime Minister Modi the Special Presidential Distinction “Guardian of the Blue Horizon”, the highest honour Seychelles bestows upon an international dignitary, recognising his leadership in sustainability, the Blue Economy, and ocean governance.

The visit coincides with both the 50th anniversary of India-Seychelles diplomatic relations and Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee, with Prime Minister Modi participating in the National Day Parade on 29 June 2026. The breadth of agreements concluded today reflects a partnership the two leaders described as a shared responsibility over their common home, the Indian Ocean.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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President Herminie and Prime Minister (PM) Modi Explore Seychelles’ Iconic Botanical Gardens

Source: APO


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President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr Patrick Herminie, welcomed the Prime Minister of the Republic of India, His Excellency Shri Narendra Modi, to the Botanical Gardens at Mont Fleuri (Bois de Rose), where the two leaders were treated to a showcase of Seychelles’ unique natural heritage.

Upon arrival, Prime Minister Modi was introduced to the Minister for Environment, Climate Change and Natural Resources, Ms Marie May Jeremie; the Chief Executive Officer of the Seychelles Parks and Gardens Authority, Mr Rodney Bonne; the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Ms Lya Docteur; the General Manager; and the Botanical Gardens’ tour guide, Ms Elsia. The visit commenced at the Giant Tortoise Enclosure, where both leaders received a briefing on the iconic Aldabra giant tortoises, one of Seychelles’ most treasured national symbols.

They were also given the opportunity to feed the tortoises, enjoying a memorable interaction with these remarkable creatures. The delegation then proceeded to the Coco de Mer section, where they were briefed on Seychelles’ endemic and world-renowned Coco de Mer palm. They learned about its unique characteristics, including the fact that it produces the world’s heaviest seed and takes approximately 25 years to reach maturity. As a lasting symbol of the enduring friendship and strong bilateral ties between Seychelles and India,

Prime Minister Modi planted a Coco de Mer tree during the visit. The visit concluded with President Dr Patrick Herminie and Prime Minister Narendra Modi sharing fresh coconut water.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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JMPD warns of major traffic on 30 June

Source: Government of South Africa

JMPD warns of major traffic on 30 June

Motorists, commuters and residents travelling through Johannesburg are being urged to plan ahead, as the Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) has warned of significant traffic disruptions on Tuesday, 30 June.

Three legally approved marches are scheduled to take place simultaneously across the Johannesburg inner city, Hillbrow and Midrand (Glen Austin), with authorities expecting widespread delays and road closures.

Integrated law enforcement teams, including JMPD and SAPS Public Order Policing, will be deployed across the city to monitor procession routes, manage traffic flow and ensure public safety.

“Significant traffic disruptions and delays are anticipated between 07:00 and 16:00. Furthermore, integrated law enforcement teams will remain on high alert and will be actively deployed to monitor and manage the entire city before, during and after 30 June,” JMPD said in a statement.

The department said the proactive deployment is aimed at maintaining law and order, ensuring public safety and responding swiftly to any spontaneous protests, pickets or gatherings that may arise.

“Motorists are strongly advised to avoid affected streets and use alternative routes where possible,” the department said.

The first march, organised by March & March, will focus on inner-city safety, youth development and access to community services.

An estimated 5 000 participants are expected to gather at Beyers Naudé Square before marching to Constitution Hill, where a memorandum will be handed to the Hillbrow Station Commander.

The procession will begin at 10:00 and continue until 14:00, moving along Helen Joseph Street, Troye Street, Twist Street, Kotze Street and Queen Street.

The second march, organised by the Labour and Civic Organisation (LACO), is expected to draw around 1 200 participants.

The march aims to raise concerns around illegal immigration policies and engage the Department of Home Affairs.

Participants will gather at the intersection of Kotze and Hospital streets in Hillbrow before proceeding to the Department of Home Affairs on Plein Street, where a memorandum will be submitted. The procession is expected to run from 09:00 to 12:00.

In Midrand, the Mayibuye Youth Activism Movement will lead a labour march focused on youth employment opportunities.

Around 800 participants are expected to gather at the Dale Road and Modderfontein Road open space before marching to Sandton Plant Hire Offices to submit a memorandum related to local employment concerns.

This procession will run from 10:00 to 12:00, with dispersal expected at 13:00.

JMPD warned that rolling road closures and temporary barricades will be implemented along all approved routes as the marches progress.

“Please exercise extreme patience, follow the directions of JMPD and law enforcement officers on the ground, or plan your travel outside the affected areas during these times,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za

Edwin

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La Société islamique d’assurance des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (SIACE) conclut les Assemblées annuelles 2026 du Groupe de la Banque islamique de développement (BID) à Bakou avec sept accords dépassant 1 milliard de dollars américains

Source: Africa Press Organisation – French


La Société islamique d’assurance des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (SIACE) (https://ICIEC.IsDB.org), assureur multilatéral de crédit et de risques politiques conforme à la Charia et membre du Groupe de la Banque islamique de développement (BID), a conclu sa participation aux Assemblées annuelles 2026 du Groupe de la BID à Bakou avec la signature de sept accords, protocoles d’accord et polices d’assurance d’une valeur totale supérieure à 1 milliard de dollars américains.

Tenues du 16 au 19 juin sous le thème « L’intégration régionale au service d’une prospérité durable », les Assemblées annuelles ont constitué une plateforme stratégique permettant à la SIACE de developper ses partenariats, de soutenir des projets bancables et de renforcer son rôle dans la facilitation du commerce et de l’investissement dans ses 51 États membres.

Lors du 14e Forum du secteur privé du Groupe de la BID, Dr Khalid Khalafalla, Directeur général de la SIACE, est intervenu en tant qu’orateur lors de la session des Directeurs généraux intitulée « Rendre l’intégration régionale attractive pour les investisseurs ». La session a porté sur la manière dont le Groupe de la BID peut offrir des solutions intégrées en combinant facilitation du commerce, structuration des investissements et instruments d’atténuation   des risques afin de transformer les ambitions d’intégration régionale en opportunités évolutives et bancables.

À l’issue de cette session, la SIACE a organisé une table ronde de haut niveau intitulée « Dérisquer le commerce et l’investissement pour la prospérité régionale ». Cette session a réuni près de 300 participants, notamment de hauts responsables azerbaïdjanais, des dirigeants d’entreprises, des investisseurs, des institutions de financement du développement, des agences de crédit à l’exportation, des assureurs et des organisations de promotion du commerce.

Les discussions ont mis en lumière le rôle de l’Azerbaïdjan en tant que hub régional stratégique reliant l’Asie centrale, le Caucase du Sud, la Türkiye, l’Europe et la région plus large de l’OCI. Elles ont également examiné la manière dont les instruments de gestion des risques conformes à la Charia peuvent mobiliser les capitaux transfrontaliers, renforcer la confiance des investisseurs et soutenir le développement durable dans les pays membres.

Les accords signés durant le Forum du secteur privé couvrent plusieurs domaines clés, tels que les infrastructures, le financement du commerce, le développement des exportations, la coopération bancaire et la facilitation de l’investissement. Ils ont notamment porté sur le soutien à des transactions stratégiques au Nigéria, en Türkiye, en Ouganda et dans d’autres pays membres, ainsi que sur des partenariats avec des institutions financières visant à élargir l’accès à des solutions de réduction du risque et de financement du commerce conformes à la Charia.

Commentant la participation de la SIACE, Dr Khalid Khalafalla a déclaré : « Les réalisations de la SIACE à Bakou démontrent le rôle essentiel de l’atténuation des risques dans la transformation des ambitions d’intégration régionale en opportunités bancables. Les accords conclus lors des Assemblées annuelles soutiendront la mise en œuvre d’infrastructures, les flux commerciaux, la mobilisation des investissements et la croissance du secteur privé dans nos États membres. La SIACE demeure déterminée à fournir la confiance et la protection nécessaires pour faire passer les projets stratégiques du stade de concept à celui de la mise en œuvre. »

Tout au long des Assemblées annuelles, la SIACE a tenu plus de 80 réunions B2B et B2G avec des parties prenantes de plus de 60 pays, renforçant ainsi son engagement auprès des gouvernements, les institutions financières, les investisseurs, les exportateurs et les dirigeants du secteur privé.

Les Prix de la SIACE ont distingué des institutions et initiatives remarquables pour leur contribution au commerce, à l’investissement et au développement durable. Cette année, la SIACE a honoré First Abu Dhabi Bank, Standard Chartered Bank et Agrobank pour des transactions phares dans les domaines des infrastructures et du financement du commerce, reflétant l’impact de partenariats efficaces et de l’atténuation des risques.

À l’occasion de ses Assemblées annuelles, la SIACE a également publié un numéro spécial intitulé « Corridors d’opportunités : de l’Azerbaïdjan à l’Asie centrale, faciliter les financements grâce à la gestion des risques ». Cette publication met en lumière le rôle croissant de l’Azerbaïdjan en tant que porte d’entrée stratégique reliant l’Asie centrale, le Caucase du Sud, la Türkiye, l’Europe et le monde islamique. Elle propose des analyses sur les corridors commerciaux, la finance islamique, l’assurance-crédit à l’exportation, la protection des investissements et le rôle de la gestion des risques dans la promotion d’une croissance durable.

Les résultats obtenus par la SIACE à Bakou réaffirment son engagement à travailler avec les États membres, les institutions financières, les investisseurs et les partenaires au développement afin de dérisquer les projets stratégiques, d’élargir le commerce transfrontalier et de promouvoir une prospérité durable dans la région de l’OCI et au-delà.

Distribué par APO Group pour Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC).

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À propos de la SIACE : 
En tant que membre du groupe de la Banque islamique de développement, bénéficiant d’excellentes notations financières, la Société islamique d’assurance des investissements et des crédits à l’exportation (SIACE) a commencé ses opérations en 1994 afin de renforcer les relations économiques entre les États membres de l’Organisation de la coopération islamique (OCI) et de promouvoir le commerce ainsi que les investissements intra-OCI, grâce à des instruments d’atténuation des risques et à des solutions financières conformes aux principes de la Charia. La Société est le seul assureur multilatéral islamique au monde. Elle a joué un rôle de premier plan en proposant une gamme complète de solutions aux entreprises et aux parties prenantes de ses 51 pays membres. Pour la 18ᵉ année consécutive, la SIACE a conservé sa note de solidité financière « Aa3 » attribuée par Moody’s, la classant parmi les leaders du secteur de l’assurance-crédit et des risques politiques. Par ailleurs, S&P a confirmé la note « AA- » pour la troisième année consécutive, avec des perspectives stables. La résilience de la SIACE repose sur une souscription solide, un réseau mondial de réassurance et des politiques rigoureuses de gestion des risques. Au total, la SIACE a assuré plus de 138 milliards USD de transactions commerciales et d’investissements, couvrant des secteurs clés tels que l’énergie, l’industrie manufacturière, les infrastructures, la santé et l’agriculture.

Pour plus d’informations, veuillez visiter : https://ICIEC.IsDB.org

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Seychelles: President Herminie Hosts State Dinner in Honour of Prime Minister Modi at State House

Source: APO


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President of the Republic, Dr Patrick Herminie this evening hosted a State Dinner at State House in honour of His Excellency Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of the Republic of India, who is the Guest of Honour at Seychelles’ 50th Anniversary of Independence as a Republic.

The dinner was attended by Speaker of the National Assembly Azarel Ernesta, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Diapora, Mr Barry Faure, Indian Minister of External Affairs Dr S. Jaishankar, and Members of Cabinet amongst other guests.

This year carries particular significance for both nations, as 2026 also marks the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Seychelles and India, a partnership built on shared democratic values, maritime cooperation, and enduring people-to-people ties. The concurrent celebrations of Seychelles’ Golden Jubilee as a Republic and five decades of bilateral friendship lend the visit exceptional symbolic weight.

Addressing guests at the dinner, President Herminie affirmed the enduring bond between the two nations. “India has been a steadfast friend to Seychelles, a sentiment warmly reciprocated by our people and our vibrant Indian diaspora,” said President Herminie.

Prime Minister Modi, who was presented with a giant tortoise by Seychelles during his first State Visit, drew on the cherished symbol to speak to the depth of bilateral ties. “The friendship between India and Seychelles has progressed steady, strong and long-lasting, and together we will win the race,” said Prime Minister Modi.

Seychelles and India have maintained close and mutually beneficial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1976, with India remaining a committed development partner across sectors including infrastructure, defence, health, and maritime security.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Victoria earlier this morning to a formal welcome befitting the historic occasion, marking his second State Visit to Seychelles.

Prime Minister Modi’s presence as Guest of Honour at the National Day celebrations on 29 June 2026 underscores the depth and vitality of the Seychelles-India relationship as both nations look to the next fifty years of partnership.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of State House Seychelles.

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Eritrea: Soil and water conservation popular campaign

Source: APO


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Members of the PFDJ in the civil service in Berik sub-zone have conducted a soil and water conservation popular campaign.

Ms. Rahwa Qeleta, secretary of the PFDJ in the sub-zone, said that the popular campaign, which started in January 2026 in 12 administrative areas and 21 villages, is being carried out in accordance with the guidance of the Ministry of Agriculture. The campaign includes the preparation of holes to plant 4 thousand tree seedlings on 5 hectares of land.

Mr. Major Mengisteab, head of the agriculture office in the sub-zone, said that so far terraces have been constructed on 1 thousand 200 hectares of land.

Mr. Major went on to say that there is a plan to plant over 350 thousand tree seedlings in the coming rainy season and called on residents to strengthen participation for the successful implementation of the program.

The residents, on their part, expressed readiness to strengthen participation in the program.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Eritrea: Mai-Habar Technical School graduates 143 students

Source: APO


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Mai-Habar Technical School has graduated 143 students, including 55 female students, in certificate programs.

Mr. Tesfazgi Abraha, director of the school, indicated that after two years of theoretical and practical training, 24 students graduated in auto mechanics, 23 in construction, 25 in electricity, 23 in electronics, 24 in plumbing, and 24 in woodwork.

Underlining the importance of skilled labor in the economic development of a country, Mr. Measho Gebretensae, head of follow-up and educational capacity assurance at the Ministry of Education, called on the graduates to strengthen participation in the nation-building process with the knowledge they gained from the training.

At the graduation ceremony, outstanding students were presented awards by Ms. Tekea Tesfamicael, President of the National Union of Eritrean Women, and other officials.

Mai-Habar Technical School, which was established in 1997, has so far graduated 5 thousand 321 students, including 730 female students.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Information, Eritrea.

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Mashatile wraps up working visit to China

Source: Government of South Africa

Mashatile wraps up working visit to China

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has successfully concluded his working visit to China, undertaken at the invitation of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) chairperson, Ren Hongbin.

The visit focused on strengthening trade, investment and industrial cooperation between South Africa and China, further reinforcing the strong strategic partnership between the two nations.

Ren welcomed the Deputy President and the South African delegation, underscoring the significance of South Africa’s participation in the China International Supply Chain Expo (CISCE).

Mashatile expressed appreciation to the CCPIT for the invitation and for hosting the expo, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to deepening trade and investment ties with China.

Discussions between the two sides explored opportunities to improve market access, expand business participation and unlock greater cooperation across trade and investment platforms.

In a sign of growing bilateral engagement, Mashatile participated in CISCE for the second time, highlighting South Africa’s continued commitment to this influential global platform.

Addressing the expo, the Deputy President emphasised the importance of building resilient, diversified and sustainable global supply chains amid shifting economic realities, while reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to strengthening its comprehensive strategic partnership with China.

“South Africa is an attractive investment destination, supported by sophisticated industrial capabilities, a world-class financial sector and well-established logistics infrastructure. We remain committed to reforms aimed at improving the ease of doing business, accelerating infrastructure development and strengthening industrial competitiveness,” he said.

During the expo, the Deputy President toured the exhibition floor, engaging with exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge developments in digital technologies, advanced manufacturing, green energy, agriculture, smart mobility and supply chain services.

As part of the visit, Mashatile also held a bilateral meeting with Han Zheng. The two leaders reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between South Africa and China and discussed closer cooperation in trade, investment, industrial development and multilateral engagement.

In efforts to attract greater investment into South Africa, the Deputy President met with several leading Chinese companies, including China Communications Construction Company (CCCC), Geely Automobile, Chery Automobile, Green Minerals and Metals, Beijing GeoEnviron Engineering & Technology and SANY Group.

The engagements focused on key sectors including infrastructure development, automotive manufacturing, mineral beneficiation, environmental management, healthcare, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, skills development and localisation.

Mashatile encouraged the companies to invest in South Africa and invited them to participate in the next South Africa Investment Conference.

The Deputy President also participated in a South Africa Networking Session hosted at the South African Embassy in Beijing, bringing together government, business and investment stakeholders to deepen economic cooperation and promote South Africa as a preferred investment destination.

During the second leg of the working visit, Mashatile travelled to Shenzhen, specifically the Nanshan District, where he participated in the China (Shenzhen Nanshan)-South Africa Economic and Trade Cooperation Exchange at the Go Global Center.

The programme included guided tours and high-level engagements with representatives from government, business and the Communist Party of China.

Key engagements included bilateral meetings with Huang Xiangyue and his delegation; China Everbright Environment led by Chairman Wang Silian; Shenzhen Yujiaocheng Technology (YJC Group); Jiangsu Joylong Automobile, and the South Africa-China Shenzhen Chamber of Commerce, led by Deputy Secretary General Shirley Chan.

Mashatile also toured and engaged with senior leadership of Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics.

On the final day of the visit, the Deputy President held a bilateral meeting with Jin Lei, the China Communist Party Secretary of Shenzhen, and his delegation. He also travelled to Dongguan for a guided tour of the South Africa Commodity China Exhibition and Trade Centre, a platform aimed at strengthening commercial and economic relations between South Africa and China through imports and exports.

“South Africa values institutions that create practical mechanisms for expanding trade, attracting investment and facilitating business partnerships between our two republics,” said the Deputy President as he concluded the visit.

Mashatile was accompanied by the Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Zuko Godlimpi, and senior government officials. – SAnews.gov.za

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