Mrs Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, and Mr António Costa, President of the European Council, met with Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, in Cape Town for the 8th EU-South Africa Summit. The Leaders issued the following statement:
- The EU and South Africa reaffirmed their Strategic Partnership based on democracy, human rights, equality, and sovereignty.
- Amid global instability, they highlighted the importance of multilateral cooperation and adherence to international law and the UN Charter.
- Both parties support lasting peace in global conflicts, including Ukraine and the DRC.
- Commitment to multilateralism and addressing challenges such as climate change and inequality was emphasized.
- Support for South Africas G20 presidency in 2025, focusing on solidarity, equality, and sustainable development, was expressed.
- The need for UN Security Council reform to reflect todays realities and strengthen underrepresented regions, especially Africa, was acknowledged.
- Commitment to a transparent, fair, and sustainable multilateral trading system was reiterated.
- A dedicated dialogue on peace, security, and defense was announced to address evolving threats.
- Commitment to the Paris Agreement and achieving net-zero emissions was reaffirmed, including supporting just transition pathways.
- Collaboration on AI governance and digital inclusion was agreed upon, focusing on developing countries.
Regional Cooperation
- Commitment to peace, security, and sustainable development in Africa, supporting the African Unions Agenda 2063, was emphasized.
- The EU-AU partnerships 25th anniversary was noted, with plans for future summits highlighted.
- Collaboration with the African Union to address conflicts, particularly in the DRC, was stressed.
- Condemnation of human rights violations in the DRC and support for UN resolutions was expressed.
- Concerns about military coups, election violence, and terrorism in Africa were acknowledged.
Bilateral Sectorial Cooperation
- Expansion of cooperation across sectors such as trade, innovation, and climate was noted.
- The importance of science, technology, and innovation in bilateral cooperation was highlighted.
- Commitment to health cooperation, particularly vaccine production in Africa, was reiterated.
- Support for education systems to address poverty and inequality was reaffirmed.
- Commitment to human rights and gender equality was underscored.
- The EU remains South Africas key trade partner, with commitments to enhancing trade relations.