President Jacob Zuma will lead a high-profile economic delegation on a state visit to France from March 2 to 3, according to Minister of International Relations and Co-operation Maite Nkoana-Mashabane.

The delegation includes Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan, Trade and Industry Minister Rob Davies, Energy Minister Dipuo Peters, Police Minister Nathi Mthethwa and Nkoana-Mashabane.

A major objective of the visit will be to address the South African-French trade deficit, which in 2009 stood at R10-billion in France's favour.

Nkoana-Mashabane said Zuma would consult President Nicolas Sarkozy on strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries and developments in Africa.

France's G-20 presidency and South Africa's hosting of climate change talks will also be on the agenda.