Ramaphosa Cements Ties With Tanzania During First State Visit Since May Poll

Riyaz Patel

President Cyril Ramaphosa says his State Visit to Tanzania, his first such engagement since being elected president in May, is an expression of the “strength and depth of the bilateral relations between the two nations.”

He said South Africa value the “historical, political, economic and cultural ties with Tanzania, and are pleased that these relations continue to grow steadily.”

While expressing satisfaction at the strong bilateral relations between Pretoria and Dar es Salaam, Ramaphosa said much more could and must be done to deepen and expand these “historical” relations.

Ramaphosa said there’s agreement to encourage business communities in both countries to make full use of existing opportunities to increase trade and investment initiatives.

Tanzanian President John Magufuli pointed out that there are 208 South African businesses operating in Tanzania, employing some 21 000 people.

“We appreciate this and he has asked us to invite more businesses to