Cape Town, 19 July 2023 (TDI): Tánaiste Micheál Martin TD, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence commenced a significant weeklong visit to South Africa and Mozambique on Monday, 17 July.
This visit aims to strengthen Ireland’s bilateral ties with both countries, focusing on political, economic, and development relations.
During his time in South Africa, the Tánaiste will deliver the inaugural lecture of the Maxeke-Robinson Irish Studies Chair, highlighting the enduring relationship between South Africa and Ireland.
He will also inaugurate a Good Friday Exhibition at the University of the Western Cape.
Additionally, the Tánaiste will officially open the office of Irish firm, Kirby Group Engineering in Cape Town and engage with Bord Bia clients and medical technology companies supported by Enterprise Ireland.
The visit holds special significance as it coincides with Mandela Day on 18 July, which commemorates the 67 years Nelson Mandela dedicated to fighting for social justice in South Africa.
In honor of this day, the Tánaiste participated in 67 minutes of service at a community center, alongside South African Foreign Minister Pandor.
Visit to Mozambique
In Mozambique, the Tánaiste will travel to Inhambane province, where Ireland has been actively involved for many years.
He will visit partners working in the nutrition, health, and education sectors, including attending an Agricultural and Blue Economy Fair and inaugurating a solar-powered water pump system.
Moreover, the Tánaiste will visit a health center and a primary school supported through Irish funding to enhance the healthcare and education sectors in Mozambique.
Micheál Martin TD expressed his anticipation for witnessing firsthand the positive and sustainable impact of Ireland’s second-largest bilateral international development program on the lives of Mozambicans.
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The visit reaffirms the strong partnership between Ireland and Mozambique, focusing on initiatives that have a tangible and lasting effect on the well-being of the local population.
Throughout his visit to both South Africa and Mozambique, the Tánaiste will hold crucial meetings with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi.
These high-level political engagements with his counterparts and officials in both countries are aimed at fostering cooperation and addressing shared challenges.
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