City View at London. Representational Image.
City View at London. Representational Image. Dominika Gregušová/Pexels.com

Deputy President Paul Mashatile emphasized the government's commitment to creating an inclusive economy in South Africa, assuring Londoners that the Government of National Unity (GNU) is working hard to achieve this goal.

The deputy president shared this during a Bloomberg roundtable discussion in London as part of a weeklong working visit that began on Monday. He is in the United Kingdom to meet with leaders to improve trade and investment relations between South Africa and the UK, following a successful visit to Ireland.

"My delegation and I are here in the United Kingdom to build on the outcomes of the State Visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2022, with a specific focus on how we can work together to ensure inclusive economic growth, address and respond to climate change challenges and the Just Transition, and ensure a balance and increase of trade between our two countries," he said, SA News reported.

The deputy president noted that the main focus is on promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, tackling poverty and the high cost of living and strengthening partnerships between countries in various sectors.

These sectors include trade, investment, skills development, science, innovation, tourism and the Just Energy Transition.

He explained that these important sectors aim to support the Government of National Unity's (GNU) goals of achieving sustainable economic growth, reducing poverty and the cost of living, and building a capable and ethical government.

Mashatile added that the people voted for collaboration to create better job opportunities and equal economic growth across society. He stressed that the GNU is the best way to move the country forward, encouraging everyone to set aside their differences for the benefit of the nation.

Furthermore, the deputy president assured that the GNU is working to create a supportive environment for businesses to thrive for those interested in doing business in South Africa and potential investors.

He said that the new government holds the United Kingdom in high regard, not only because of their historical relationship but also due to the great potential for collaboration and growth between the two countries.

By building stronger trade and investment connections, he said the government aims to create a "win-win" situation that benefits both nations and brings economic prosperity and stability.