Celebrating 30 Years of Democracy: South Africa-EU Partnership Reaches New Heights

A significant pillar of this transformation has been its strategic relationship with the European Union (EU), one of the country’s most valued international partners.

As South Africa marks over 30 years of freedom and democracy, it does so as a nation that has transformed its image globally — from a pariah state under apartheid to a respected player in global diplomacy, known for its commitment to peace, human rights, and multilateral cooperation. A significant pillar of this transformation has been its strategic relationship with the European Union (EU), one of the country’s most valued international partners.

Since the country’s first democratic elections on 27 April 1994, South Africa has charted a course guided by the principles of Ubuntu — a humanist philosophy that emphasizes interconnectedness and collective progress. Ubuntu underpins the country’s foreign policy, anchoring it in respect for all nations, peoples, and cultures. This approach is evident in South Africa’s international engagements, especially with partners such as the EU, where shared values of democracy, human rights, and the rule of law form the foundation of cooperation.

A Legacy Rooted in Solidarity

The seeds of the South Africa-EU relationship were sown in 1990, shortly after Nelson Mandela’s historic release from prison. In a powerful symbolic gesture, Mandela — affectionately known as Madiba — travelled to the European Parliament to receive the Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought, the EU’s highest tribute to those defending human rights. During this visit, he acknowledged Europe’s support in the fight against apartheid and urged continued solidarity in rebuilding a democratic South Africa.

This visit marked the beginning of a robust and evolving partnership. In 1999, South Africa became the first African country to sign a Free Trade Agreement with the EU — the Trade, Development and Cooperation Agreement (TDCA). This agreement not only facilitated greater trade and economic integration but also established a structured political dialogue between the two partners.

Deepening Cooperation Through the Strategic Partnership

In 2007, the relationship was further cemented through the launch of the South Africa–EU Strategic Partnership, accompanied by a Joint Action Plan. This roadmap outlines cooperation across a range of areas, including trade, climate change, science and technology, peace and security, and regional and global governance.

The TDCA and the Strategic Partnership have opened doors for South Africa in the global economy and enabled high-level political and economic dialogues. These platforms have become critical for advancing shared priorities, including sustainable development, job creation, and regional stability.

Economic Ties: A Mutually Beneficial Relationship

The South Africa-EU economic partnership has grown remarkably over the years. Total trade between the two partners surged by 44% in just five years — from R586 billion in 2019 to R846 billion in 2023. The EU remains South Africa’s largest trading partner as a bloc and accounts for 41% of total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into the country.

More than 2,000 EU companies are currently operating in South Africa, contributing significantly to economic activity and supporting over 500,000 direct and indirect jobs. These investments span a variety of sectors, from automotive and finance to manufacturing and infrastructure, helping to bolster South Africa’s economy and reduce unemployment.

The 16th Ministerial Political Dialogue and 2025 EU-SA Summit

In February 2025, South Africa hosted the 16th Ministerial Political Dialogue — an event that reaffirmed the strategic nature of the EU-SA relationship. Co-chaired by South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, the dialogue focused on strengthening cooperation on global challenges, promoting multilateralism, and reinforcing the rules-based international order.

This dialogue served as a precursor to the high-level EU-South Africa Summit held in March 2025. The summit marked a significant moment in bilateral relations, with leaders reaffirming commitments to deepened economic cooperation, social development, and sustainable growth.

A major outcome of the summit was the announcement of a €4.7 billion investment package from the EU. This funding will support joint projects in priority areas such as:

• Renewable energy and green hydrogen

• Transport and digital infrastructure

• Critical raw materials processing and clean technology

• Local vaccine and pharmaceutical manufacturing

• Education, skills development, and job creation

Towards a Clean Trade and Investment Partnership

Another notable development was the decision to launch negotiations on a Clean Trade and Investment Partnership. This initiative seeks to foster sustainable value chains in raw materials, support local beneficiation, and promote low-carbon and green energy solutions. It aligns with both parties’ commitments to environmental sustainability and inclusive economic development.

Additionally, both sides agreed to address outstanding trade issues, such as barriers affecting the import of animal and plant products. South Africa pledged to work on mechanisms to facilitate poultry imports from disease-free zones within the EU — a move that could improve trade balance and food security.

Shared Global Responsibilities

Beyond bilateral interests, South Africa and the EU also pledged to collaborate on pressing global issues. The summit reaffirmed both parties’ support for peace and stability in regions such as Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Palestine. Both sides also emphasized the urgent need to reform the United Nations Security Council to ensure it is more inclusive, democratic, and effective in addressing today’s global challenges.

Importantly, the EU voiced its strong support for South Africa’s upcoming G20 Presidency in 2025 and committed to reinforcing the G20 Compact with Africa — a platform aimed at boosting private investment and sustainable development across the continent.

Looking Ahead

As South Africa continues its journey of development, reconciliation, and transformation, the strategic partnership with the EU stands as a testament to what can be achieved through mutual respect and cooperation.

This partnership is not just about trade or diplomacy — it reflects shared values, common goals, and a collective vision for a better, fairer, and more sustainable world. As government officials, business leaders, and civil society work together to realise the goals set out in the National Development Plan, continued collaboration with the EU will be instrumental in achieving South Africa’s national priorities — reducing poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

In celebrating three decades of freedom and thirty-five years since Madiba’s historic EU visit, South Africa stands proud of its progress and optimistic about the future. The strengthening of ties with the European Union promises even greater opportunities for growth, development, and global influence in the years ahead.