Michael P. Kitt
Question:41 Mr. M. Kitt asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs the current position in relation to a trade agreement between South Africa and the EU. [15041/96]
Written Answers. - South African Trade Agreement.
Tánaiste and Minister For Foreign Affairs: (Mr. Spring)
At its meeting 25 March, the council approved negotiating directives for an agreement for trade and co-operation with South Africa. On 29 March the Union formally presented the EU negotiating mandate to the South African authorities.
The first meeting between South Africa and the Commission was held on 21 and 22 June and progress was made on the non-trade aspects of an agreement. These include economic and industrial co-operation, the information society, education, research and technology. The South African delegation was not in a position to discuss the trade aspects of the proposed agreement, as consultations on these matters were continuing within South Africa and with its partners in the South African Customs Union. The next round of negotiations is planned for September.
Ireland supports the conclusion of an agreement for trade and co-operation with South Africa and I look forward to the successful conclusion of negotiations to that end.