Cape Town, 10 May 2022 (TDI): The US Under Secretary for Economic Growth, Energy, and the Environment, Jose W. Fernandez, is on a visit to South Africa and Zambia. The purpose of the visit is to engage with government officials, businesses, and members of civil society.
Moreover, the US aims to support shared objectives regarding trade and investment, public health and environment programs, as well as pandemic relief. Jose W. Fernandez will stay in South Africa till 11 May. Afterward, he will pay a two-day visit to Lusaka, Zambia.
Under Secretary Fernandez will address the Invest in Africa Mining Indaba, Africa’s largest mining investment conference, in Cape Town. He will discuss the importance of US support and investment for developing and securing more robust critical mineral supply chains.
Furthermore, the Under Secretary will focus on promoting more investment in Africa to increase employment and greater economic inclusion. Additionally, the increased investment will provide opportunities for the US and African citizens for business.
Also, he will meet representatives of the private sector to deepen the collaboration for speeding the economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. They will also discuss the measures supporting vaccine development and sustainable production.
Thereafter, the Under Secretary will pay a two-day visit to Zambia where he will call on President Hakainde Hichilema and other Zambian representatives.
They will talk about strengthening bilateral economic ties and promoting American investment and business engagement.
In addition, he will meet representatives from the local business community to promote an enabling environment for trade and investment opportunities.
US-South Africa Ties
The ties between the US and South Africa have steadily increased since 1994. Besides, South Africa is the largest trade partner of the United States in Africa. Recently, both countries have cooperated in the health sector during the COVID-19 pandemic.
US-Zambia Ties
The United States has provided development assistance and aid to the developing African country. Likewise, the United States works closely with the Zambian government in the health sector. The US has provided aid to help defeat HIV/AIDS and Covid19 in Zambia.
