SA, EU strengthen relations

Wednesday, November 14, 2018

President Cyril Ramaphosa has held discussions with the President of the European Parliament, Antonio Tajani, in Strasbourg, France. 

The strengthening of cooperation between the continents of Africa and Europe, expansion of youth employment and the opportunities and challenges offered by immigration into Europe were at the centre of the discussions between the two leaders this morning. 

Reflecting on the historical social and cultural relations between South Africa and Europe, President Ramaphosa emphasised South Africa’s commitment to strengthen existing relations, with a focus on further expanding economic ties. 

“We are renewing our bonds and strengthening our historical ties. Now is the time to chart a new path of prosperity defined by increased investment and trade between our two continents,” President Ramaphosa said. 

He expressed his support for Tajani’s intention to develop an investment-led Marshall Plan for Africa, identifying minerals and minerals beneficiation, cooperation in areas of digital infrastructure, tourism and climate change as areas of cooperation. 

The President further welcomed the European Parliament’s commitment to economic diplomacy. 

“Ours is an association of equals and friends who want to work together in partnership,” the President said. 

The President was expected to address the European Parliament under the theme ‘A partnership of equals based on shared values’. – SAnews.gov.za