The ambassadors of Sweden, Iceland, Denmark and Finland and the Minister Counsellor of the Royal Norwegian Embassy signed the joint declaration of intent on behalf of their respective governments, manifesting their will to extend their cooperation with South Africa on development issues on the continent.
Deputy Minister Pahad highlighted the Nordic countries strong traditions in development cooperation with Africa as well as their contributions to the United Nations. He stressed that the declaration will help South Africa to more effectively utilise development resources and achieve objectives in conflict resolution, good governance and human rights on the African continent.
Minister Counsellor of the Royal Norwegian Embassy, Ms May- Elin Stener, was very pleased to sign the document on behalf of Norway. She stressed the fact that Norway and South Africa have a longstanding tradition of bilateral cooperation, but are also extending tripartite cooperation, notably in Sudan and Burundi. She also expressed hope that the declaration will offer a framework for further cooperation in other African countries.