Deputy President Paul Mashatile noted that government should work together with business to solve the country’s economic difficulties while promoting greater social inclusion and sustainability.

On Wednesday, Mashatile met with over 50 business leaders in Johannesburg, for an interactive session organised by leading global think tank The European House – Ambrosetti.

The event was convened with the aim of strengthening strategic relationships between industry and government and promoting growth through a multi-stakeholder approach.

He explained that through collaboration, government and business would be able to make South Africa “a better and more prosperous nation”.

Mashatile agreed with business leaders that there was a need for acceleration towards the resolution of challenges impacting key economic enablers, such as energy, transport and logistics, and crime and corruption.

Despite the challenges facing the country, he expressed his optimism about government's willingness to tackle pressing issues, emphasising the need for public-private partnerships, such as those facilitated by the Southern Africa CEO Community – African Chapter, to help address the country's challenges and provide support for businesses and rural and township communities.

The forum offered an opportunity for Mashatile to listen to and collaborate with business leaders on key areas that the government defines as critical for the future of the country and communities.

It also served as a means to strengthen ties between government and the private sector.