S. Africa Signs Defense Treaty with Kuwait

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Last updated at: (Beijing Time) Tuesday, July 16, 2002

S. Africa Signs Defense Treaty with Kuwait

South Africa signed a defensetreaty with Kuwait Monday in Pretoria to forge close military cooperation between the two countries.

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South Africa signed a defensetreaty with Kuwait Monday in Pretoria to forge close military cooperation between the two countries.

The South African Press Association reported the memorandum of understanding was signed by South African Defense Minister MosiuoaLekota and visiting Kuwaiti Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah.

Lekota said the agreement included the cooperation in personneltraining, exercises and the exchange of expertise.

"We also include the possibility of cooperation in the exchangeof technology," Lekota added.

He said the new treaty was in accordance with the spirit of theNew Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) and in view of the new developments on the continent.

"One of these developments is the envisaged role of peace-support missions of the African Union (AU) on the continent of Africa."

Last Tuesday saw the launched African Union in Durban, replacing the 39-year-old Organization of African Unity. One of the major tasks of the new union was to end the war and conflict in Africa.

Al-Sabah, who arrived in South Africa Sunday for a five-day visit, welcomed the signing of the agreement, saying "This just the beginning of a very important mission for the future."

He hoped the good relations between the two countries would flourish and there would be more cooperation between the two countries and two peoples.

Lekota said South Africa treasured the relationship with Kuwaitas this would help to stabilize the Mideast region.

Lekota pointed out that Al-Sabah's trip came just a week after a visit of Iraq's Deputy Prime Minister Tariq Aziz.

He indicated South Africa would discuss the continued tension between Kuwait and Iraq during Al-Sabah's visit.

South Africa felt compelled to play a role that would encourageboth sides to resolve the tension by negotiations.

"If we are going to do that, we have to talk to both sides," Lekota said.

According to the current schedule, Al-Sabah would hold talks with Deputy President Jacob Zuma Tuesday, and would meet leading figures in the defense industry later in the week.

"When they get home, they will probably decide what are the defense needs, they feel they can satisfy from the South African market." Lokata said.

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