India, SA to sign pact on cultural exchange

New Delhi, Aug 12 (UNI) India and South Africa will sign an agreement on cultural exchange during the visit of Tourism and Culture Minister Ambika Soni to that country later this week.

The proposed Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP) 2008-2010, will cover areas such as performing arts, culture, archaeology, handicrafts exhibitions, exchange of artisans, books and exchange of experts, films etc.

Ms Soni will also attend the Centenary Commemoration event of the burning of the registration certificate in Johannesburg by Mahatma Gandhi and his fellow Indians.

The main event will be held on August 16 when Ms Soni will lead the symbolic march upto Hamidiya Mosque, the actual site of the event in 1908.

During her visit, the Minister will also have meeting with her counterpart Z Pallo Jordan and sign a pact on cultural exchange between the two countries on August 15.

Ms Soni will also be the guest of honour at the Independence Day reception to be hosted by the Indian High Commission at Pretoria.

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