Discussion „Lithuania – South Africa: Cooperation Perspectives“

In the context of African Days events that will take place in the week commencing on 27 May, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in cooperation with Institute ofIn the context of African Days events that will take place in the week commencing on 27 May, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in cooperation with Institute ofInternational Relations and Political Science is organizing a discussion about the recent developments and post-election perspectives in South African Republic, and their impact on the developments in the  region as well as possible implications for Lithuania. The event will be held on 29th of May, 11:00 a.m. at IIRPS VU (room 402)

The aim would be to introduce new developments to the wider academic and experts’ society, discussing also Lithuania’s role in the region and possible contributions to the strengthening of bilateral relations with South Africa. In 2015 Lithuania opened an Embassy in South Africa, therefore taking into consideration the acquired working experience, the participants are invited to exchange the views about the situation in the region and perspectives for the future cooperation. How could we strengthen bilateral ties? Where are our niches for cooperation?

Topics to be covered:

•  The political situation in South Africa (recent developments, elections, main political parties/political players, security situation, migration, the impact of Russia and China as well as relations with the neighbouring countries)
•  Economic trends – is S. Africa still one of the most important economic powers in the African continent? Discussion on economic developments, land reform, investment protection, women empowerment and other issues, emphasizing possible Lithuanian contribution to the development of bilateral relations on trade and science. What are the most important sectors for Lithuania to work in, where are our niches for cooperation? Lessons learned from past experience and future perspectives.

Moderator: Giedrė Biržytė, Lecturer of Vilnius University, Institute of International Relations and Political Science.

Opening remarks: Diana Mickevičienė, Director of the Latin America, Africa, Asia and Pacific  Department, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Lithuania.

Speakers:

• Dr. Sithembile Mbete, Department of Political Sciences, University of Pretorija
• Sigutė Jakštonytė, Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania to the Republic of South Africa
• Daina Kleponė, Director General, “Enterprise Lithuania”
• Jekaterina Govina, Adviser to the Board Member, Bank of Lithuania
• Mindaugas Glodas, CEO of NRD Companies Group
• Juozas Lapeika, Deputy CEO for Production Management, Base Maintenance Department,
• FL Technics Laurynas Miškinis, Head of Organic Products R/D and Commerce, AUGA company

12:30 p.m.  – Coffee/Tea with speakers and participants. Closing of the event.
Discussion’s language – English.