NZ, South Africa to cement ties

New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark announced Friday that New Zealand and South Africa have agreed to negotiate a film co-production agreement, and take other steps to strengthen cultural ties.

Clark made the announcement after holding talks in Auckland with visiting South African Deputy President Phumzile Mlabo-Ngcuka.

"We discussed strengthening links across arts, culture, heritage, sport, archives, broadcasting, and tourism. Exchanges and other contacts across government and the cultural sector will also be encouraged," said Clark.

New Zealand currently has cultural agreements with France, Italy, and China.

Clark said the aim of the proposed film co-production agreement is to expand and facilitate film co-production to benefit the screen industries in both countries, and to develop cultural and economic exchanges.

She said the South African and New Zealand film industries have a number of similarities, including good weather, a diversity of locations, English-speaking and experienced film crews and technicians, and good infrastructure to market their film-making capacity.

"We hope that such an agreement will encourage film-makers to share their energies and resources for the benefit of both countries," said Clark.

Source: Xinhua