SOUTH Africa�s Deputy President Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka, who is currently on a four-day visit to India at the invitation of the Indian Vice President Bhairon Singh Shekhawat, said she will discuss, among other things, cooperation between the two countries �in terms of skills acquisition and placement for young South African trainees and unemployed graduates.�

Ngcuka is seeking an expansion of training programmes in areas such as engineering, mathematics, science and vocational training. She also expressed an interest in developing projects, specifically in the fields of ceramics, jewellery manufacturing and textiles, as well as projects for small industry development, particularly for the benefit of rural women. Ngcuka will also look to consolidate bilateral relations for increased market and trade access.

The Deputy President will address various captains of Indian industry and brief them on programs such as the Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative and Joint Initiative for Priority Skills Acquisition, which are aimed at accelerating South Africa�s economic growth.

In 2005, total bilateral trade reached $1.95 billion. India currently ranks 13 among South Africas most important trading partners.