Minister V. Ušackas and S.van der Merwe discussed possibilities to intensify bilateral relations in the areas of economy, trade and culture, preparation for the World Football Championship in South Africa in 2010 and the European Basketball Championship in Lithuania in 2011.

Minister V.Ušackas stressed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Seimas (Parliament) marked Nelson Mandela Day on 18 July. On this occasion, an exhibition “Invisible Bridges of Cultures. Africa and Lithuania” was opened at the Seimas.

During the meeting, enhancement of cooperation between Lithuania and the Republic of South Africa in international organisations was discussed. The Republic of South Africa was invited to get more involved into the activities of the Community of Democracies, which is currently chaired by Lithuania. Relations between the European Union and the Republic of South Africa, the EU cooperation with the African Union were also discussed, and information was shared about the important issues of the South African region and Lithuania’s relationship with neighbouring countries.

In Lithuania, the South African Deputy Minister will also meet with Member of the Seimas, Vice-President of the Association of European Parliamentarians for Africa Egidijus Vareikis, Minister of Culture Remigijus Vilkaitis and Chancellor of the Prime Minister Deividas Matulionis. On 9 October, S.van der Merwe is leaving for Latvia.