European Union leaders and Cyril Ramaphosa holding discussions in South Africa on Thursday, March 12, 2025
Source: Africa Publicity
In a significant move to strengthen ties with one of Africa’s most advanced economy, European Union leaders announced a 4.7 billion euro ($5.10 billion) investment package during a visit to South Africa on Thursday. This development comes at a time when both the EU and South Africa are experiencing strained relations with the United States.
The EU leaders saw the visit as an opportunity to bolster close ties with South Africa, coinciding with the country’s presidency of the Group of 20 nations. Notably, US officials have largely snubbed the G20 presidency, highlighting the growing rift between the US and its traditional allies.
The strained relations between the EU and the US can be attributed to several factors, including US President Donald Trump’s pivot towards Russia in the Ukraine war and his pro-Israel stance, which has brought him into conflict with South Africa over its genocide case against Israel at the World Court.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized South Africa’s vital role on the world stage as a leading voice of the Global South. During talks with President Cyril Ramaphosa in Cape Town, von der Leyen stated, “Europe understands your potential.” She highlighted clean hydrogen as an area where South Africa could leverage its abundant raw materials and vast renewable energy potential.
Ramaphosa expressed South Africa’s desire for Europe’s support in transitioning to a low-carbon economy and growing industry. He also valued European support for multilateralism amidst rising nationalism.
The EU’s investment package is seen as a significant step towards strengthening ties with South Africa and promoting economic growth in the region.
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