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President Jacob Zuma has congratulated Mr Emmanuel Macron, President-elect of the Republic of France, following his victory on 07 May 2017 of the French presidential elections.

President Zuma said: "South Africa looks forward to working with the French government under the leadership of Mr Macron to consolidate the already strong political, economic and trade ties between South Africa and France."

France is an important source of foreign direct investment and also one of the highest sources of onward tourism for South Africa.

Relations between South Africa and France are structured through a Strategic Partnership encompassing political, economic, social and defence matters. The two countries cooperate in a wide variety of fields, especially in education and training, environment, health, transport, energy, science and research, as well as arts and culture.

President Zuma said: "South Africa will continue to work with the French government under Mr Macron to implement existing agreements and explore new areas of cooperation for the mutual benefit of the South African and French people."

Issued by GCIS on behalf of the Departmen tof International Relations and Cooperation