Q: How do you see the relationship between South Africa and Canada growing over the next few years (specifically the role that Canada will continue to play in south Africa considering that there is a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) between Canada and South Africa in place)?

A: South Africa has become one of our important political and commercial partners in Africa and we will continue to strengthen this relationship.

Canadian companies are among the largest foreign investors in the South African mining sector and Canada has benefited from the reciprocal relationship with South African mining investors.

Canada and South Africa are will soon agree to a bilateral nuclear cooperation agreement which will allow Canadian firms to export and import controlled nuclear materials, equipment and technology to and from South Africa while ensuring that Canadian supplied goods and technology are used for peaceful, civilian purposes.

Q: How do you see the Canadian trade and foreign policy relationship evolving with other countries in the continent?

A: Canada will continue to be a major force in the mining sector in sub-Saharan Africa, where Canadian companies are active in many countries. Canadian companies are also helping manage the development of new infrastructure on the continent including through public-private partnerships.

Since July 9, Canada has offered trade commissioner services to Canadian companies wishing to do business in Africa's newest country, the Republic of South Sudan. Canada believes that increased accountability and transparency in South Sudan and across the continent will enhance the prospects for international investment.

Q: From a multilateral standpoint how do you see Canada working with other countries like Brazil in the African continent?

A: Canada is always prepared to work with democratic partners who respect human rights and the rule of law. We are encouraged by countries that are reinforcing their commitment to these values in Africa.

Canada has played an important role in supporting peacekeeping efforts, and providing development assistance and humanitarian assistance in Sudan, South Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and countries in the Horn of Africa. Canada has also been significantly involved in promoting regional dialogue on issues such as conflict minerals and sexual violence through the support of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR).

Q: It seems that collaboration between Canada and Brazil in third countries is of interest to both countries as exemplified by the current fruitful cooperation in Haiti. How will this relationship continue to expand in regions like Africa?

A: Canada values Brazil's strong engagement in Haiti and looks forward to continuing this important partnership.

Canada is committed to support Haiti's reconstruction and development for the long-term.

Canada has negotiated a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on International Development Cooperation Effectiveness with Brazil. The MOU will provide a platform for international development cooperationthrough both policy dialogue and cooperation in third countries of shared interest, including in Africa.