Issued by: Gauteng Legislature
The Speaker of the Gauteng Legislature, Mr Trevor Fowler, today held introductory discussions with a delegation of French regional political and business leaders, to explore mutual trade and investment co-operation, as well as French development aid assistance to Gauteng, for various spheres of human endeavour.
Mr Christian Cambon, leader of the French delegation and Vice President in charge of International Affairs, Economic Development and Professional Training, pledged his delegation's interest in "establishing co-operation and assistance in the area of transport, youth development and employment creation. Our sub-way technology and systems could assist you in creating an effective transport service to suit your needs and complexities."
In a wide-ranging and optimistic evaluation of South Africa's present political and socio-economic situation, Mr Fowler said that "because our democracy is fairly new and recent, some of the challenges which confront us tend to appear extraordinary in their uniqueness and rarity. We are learning, however, that other nations have gone through the same problems, and have since developed appropriate measures and solutions, some of which can be adapted to our situation".
"Of particular concern to me in the area of transport are the high costs in fares and scarcity of transportation in the rural areas. Another worrisome matter relates to the very high death toll in the Taxi industry, which accounts for 60% of the daily commuting population across the country. As we are discovering from public hearings, part of the solution should come with the introduction of formal regulations for the industry," added the Speaker.
Ms Lindiwe Zulu, the Chairperson of Committees and member of the Legislature's Management Board, identified another area for the exchange of information on France's successful partnership with the private sector in training youth for skills acquisition as a means for reducing unemployment and crime.
The meeting was cordial and enthusiastic, and ended after two hours of extensive deliberations and a commitment to enhance and pursue co-operation between the two provinces.
The French delegation is representing the province of Ile de France, where the country's capital, Paris, is situated. Ile de France shares two distinct similarities with Gauteng. Both are small in geographical size, and contribute the largest share to their respective national economies.
The delegation will fly to Cape Town tonight, where they are scheduled to meet with representatives of National Parliament.
(signed) MOEMISE MOTSEPE (Media Liaison Officer)
(Issued by the Communication Department of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature)