The engagement marked a significant moment in the exploration of areas of mutual interest between South Africa and the Southeast Asian nations, particularly in relation to knowledge sharing, cultural exchange and possible collaboration in events aimed at promoting literacy and lifelong learning.
This engagement marked a significant step towards cultural and educational collaboration between South Africa and the National Libraries of Southeast Asian countries. The positive collaborative atmosphere that transpired during the engagement will ensure that stronger connections sustained by shared history, books and cultural exchanges.
The Interim CEO of the National Library of South Africa, Ms Mandisa Tshikwatamba expressed enthusiasm for the engagement. “The discussions we had today have uncovered exciting opportunities for collaboration in areas such as the promotion of literacy and cultural exchange. We are deeply honoured to have hosted the ASEAN Pretoria Committee. We remain committed to cultivating partnerships that support our mission of advancing access to information.”
The ASEAN nations kindly gifted books to the NLSA which will add to the NLSA’s International Foreign Publications collections.