Accra, Sept. 5, GNA - President John Agyekum Kufuor on Friday held closed-door discussions with the visiting South African Minister of Defence, Mr Mosiuoa Gerard Patrick Lekota, at the Castle, Osu. Receiving Mr Lekota, President Kufuor said the visit was refreshing with regard to the cordial ties between the two countries. Mr Lekota said it was ideal for both countries to exchange views on defence to strengthen their relations.

Mr Lekota, who arrived in Accra on Thursday at the head of an eight-member delegation for a three-day official visit, was the special guest at the graduation parade held at the Ghana Military Academy and Training School at Teshie on Friday.

He is expected to call on the President of the Ga Traditional Council and travel to Kumasi to meet the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II. Dr Kwame Addo Kufuor, Minister of Defence, accompanied Mr Lekota.