Pretoria: International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Marius Fransman has arrived in Lima, Peru, as part of his four-nation tour to Latin America.

Fransman’s visit to Peru, according to his department, will be used to strengthen political, social and economic bilateral relations.

The two counties, which established diplomatic relations in July 1993, will also 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,” the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said.

During his visit, Fransman will meet with his counterpart Fernando Rojas, as well as the Deputy Minister for Social Benefits, Paola Bustamante, and the Deputy Minister for Foreign Trade and Tourism, Carlos Posada Ugaz.

A meeting with the Peru Investment Agency’s Director, Carlos Herrera, has also been scheduled.

South Africa is one of the largest investors in Peru, with SAB Miller and Anglo American operating in that 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 its reach from Lima into new markets in the region.

The 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, said DIRCO.