"South Africa regards the Russian Federation as a strategic partner; close bilateral and multilateral ties exist between the two countries," the Department of International Relations and Cooperation said in a statement.

While there is currently no structured mechanism for political dialogue between South Africa and Russia, it said the ITEC serves as the mechanism for broadening and deepening economic and trade ties.

“It is envisaged that the 10th session of ITEC will not only address current issues in the evolving bilateral relationship, but that it will also afford an opportunity to identify and map key areas that would require attention in the year ahead,” said the Ministry.

Since the signing of ITEC in 1993, ITEC has proven to be an effective instrument that has directly contributed to improved two-way trade and investment, as well as critical skills and technology transfers.