Media statement on the cancellation of President Zuma's visit to The UK
26 October 2014
The Presidency has noted reports about the cancellation of President Jacob Zuma's working visit to the UK where he was to open the innovaBRICS conference. The reports suggesting that President Zuma cancelled the visit because he was refused an audience with British Prime Minister David Cameron are incorrect and mischievous (see City Press article).
We wish to clarify that it was not compulsory for President Zuma to meet the British Prime Minister Mr David Cameron. The purpose of the visit to London was to open the innovaBRICS conference and to promote South Africa as an investment destination. The conference is part-sponsored by the South African government through BrandSA. Therefore, it was not a South Africa-UK bilateral visit which necessitates an engagement at a government level.
When Heads of State and government undertake a visit of this nature it is not a necessity to see the host head of state or government. A courtesy call takes place when both are available. Many heads of state and government come to South Africa and leave the country without seeing President Zuma, if their schedule or his does not permit a courtesy call. It is a normal occurrence.
President Zuma is looking forward to a successful visit by four Ministers to London, in the United Kingdom, and to positive outcomes for the country in contributing to the drive towards a five percent growth target that the President announced in the June 2014 State of the Nation Address.