India, South Africa discuss expanding trade, investment and digital cooperation

Story by  ANI | Posted by  Vidushi Gaur | Date 02-06-2026
Representational Image
Representational Image

 

New Delhi

South African Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile and his delegation met Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan on Tuesday as part of his ongoing six-day visit to India aimed at strengthening bilateral relations.

Earlier in the day, Mashatile held talks with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. The discussions focused on expanding cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), digital technologies and infrastructure development.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar said he was pleased to interact with the South African Deputy President and appreciated his commitment to enhancing the long-standing partnership between the two countries. He noted that both sides explored opportunities to deepen economic engagement and agreed to coordinate closely on issues of mutual interest in international forums.

As part of his visit, Mashatile also toured Dilli Haat on Sunday along with South Africa's Minister of Small Business Development, Stella Tembisa Ndabeni-Abrahams. The visit to the popular cultural marketplace was intended to provide insights into India's support mechanisms for small businesses, innovation ecosystems and economic development initiatives.

Sharing details of the visit, Mashatile said Dilli Haat offered a glimpse into India's rich cultural heritage while also showcasing how the country promotes entrepreneurship and supports small and medium enterprises. He added that the delegation was keen to learn from India's experience in areas such as digital innovation, infrastructure development and business growth.

Mashatile arrived in India on May 29 for a six-day working visit aimed at giving fresh momentum to India-South Africa relations. During the visit, he is also scheduled to meet President Droupadi Murmu and hold additional engagements in Hyderabad before departing on June 3.

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The visit underscores the growing strategic and economic partnership between India and South Africa, with both countries seeking stronger collaboration across trade, technology, investment and multilateral platforms.