22 February 2001
BACKGROUND BRIEFING MEETING OF INTERNATIONAL INVESTMENT COUNCIL
24-25 FEBRUARY 2001
The International Investment Council established by President Mbeki in 2000 will meet over the week-end of the 24-25 February 2001.
Background
On 25 June 1999, in his first address as President to Parliament, President Mbeki announced plans to establish an International Investment Council as part of government's efforts to improve effectiveness in areas of growth and investment.
On his second opening of Parliament as President, he announced the establishment of the Council and named the members, including some leading players in the global economy who were interested in our success as a country. These Council members were to work with the President, Ministers as well as our leading business people and trade unionists to help ensure that South Africa is an attractive destination for foreign investment.
The Council held its first meeting in Mpumalanga in June of 2000 where Council members discussed investment issues over two days. A number of recommendations were made for the South African government to investigate and study. Decisions were also taken on the future operation of the Council and joint action. Among these was a decision to meet twice a year in South Africa.
The government regularly provides briefings to the Council members on developments in South Africa.
Meeting of the IIC 23-24 February 2001 The second meeting of the International Investment Council is to take place over the coming weekend. Discussions are expected to involve a reportback on matters discussed in the last IIC meeting; the government's communication and marketing strategies; the government's economic programme for 2001 and the Millennium African Programme.
Ministers that will accompany the President include the following:
- Minister of Foreign Affairs - Minister of Trade and Industry - Minister of Finance - Minister of Communications - Minister of Environmental Affairs - Minister of Public Enterprises - Minister of Minerals and Energy
The Directors-General of relevant departments have also been invited.
The following Council Members have confirmed their attendance:
A press briefing is to be held after the meetings on Sunday. The time and venue will be announced at a later stage.
Issued by: Office of the Presidency
Enquiries:
Nazeem Mahatey
082 376 3820
or
Tasneem Carrim
Communications
The Presidency
Private Bag X1000
Pretoria 0001
Tel: +27 12 319 1500
Fax: +27 12 323 6080
Cell: +27 (0) 83 650 7119
e-mail: tasneem@po.gov.za
tcarrim@mweb.co.za