International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Marius Fransman has arrived in Lima, Peru on 2 September 2013 where he will start his 4-nation tour to Latin America.

Deputy Minister Fransman’s visit to Peru will be utilised to strengthen political, social and economic bilateral relations and identify new areas of cooperation. The two countries will also reaffirm mutual support in multilateral and regional forums.

The Pacific Alliance will also be on the agenda. It is a mechanism for the economic and commercial integration of Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru, formally established on 6 June 2012.

During his visit to Peru, Deputy Minister Fransman will meet with his counterpart, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Fernando Rojas, as well as the Deputy Minister for Social Benefits, Ms Paola Bustamante, and the Deputy Minister for Foreign Trade and Tourism, Mr Carlos Posada Ugaz. A meeting with the Peru Investment Agency’s Director, Mr Carlos Herrera, has also been scheduled.

Diplomatic relations between South Africa and Peru were established on 28 July 1993. While Peru has an Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa is represented residentially by an Ambassador in Peru, who is also responsible for Ecuador.

South Africa is one of the largest investors in Peru, with SAB / Miller and Anglo American operating in the country. Anglo American and Gold Fields are currently contemplating further investment of US$2, 5 billion over the next five years and SAB / Miller will be extending their reach from Lima into new markets in the region.

Main South African exports to Peru are: mining equipment, paper and carton, metal sheeting and specialised structural steel, amongst others. Peru has been looking at attracting foreign investors to implement its major infrastructure and development plan. A number of opportunities exist for South African companies in this area.

Enquiries:

Mr Clayson Monyela, spokesperson for the Department of International Relations and Cooperation

Cell: 082 884 5974