Ramaphosa in Spain for High-Level Talks and Global Democracy as Bilateral Ties Deepen

The Presidency noted that these discussions will provide an opportunity to review the current status of bilateral relations and chart a roadmap for enhanced collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

 South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Spain on a high-level Working Visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and advancing global cooperation on safeguarding democratic values amid rising geopolitical tensions.

The visit comes at a pivotal moment for international diplomacy, with President Ramaphosa set to participate in the “In Defence of Democracy” Initiative, a multilateral platform launched by Brazil and Spain in 2024 to counter the growing threats of extremism, disinformation, and erosion of democratic institutions worldwide.

Strategic Diplomatic Engagements in Madrid and Barcelona

During the visit, President Ramaphosa will engage with Spain’s top leadership, including an audience with King Felipe VI at the Zarzuela Royal Palace in Madrid and a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez in Barcelona.

These engagements are expected to deepen cooperation across key sectors such as:

• Trade and investment

• Renewable energy

• Digital economy

• Education and skills development

• Tourism

• Peace, security, and multilateral governance

The Presidency noted that these discussions will provide an opportunity to review the current status of bilateral relations and chart a roadmap for enhanced collaboration in areas of mutual interest.

South Africa–Spain Partnership Gains Momentum

The Working Visit underscores the growing strength of South Africa-Spain relations, which have steadily expanded in recent years. Bilateral trade increased by 8.3%, from $2.9 billion in 2024 to $3.1 billion in 2025, reflecting a deepening economic partnership.

Spain has also emerged as a significant investor in South Africa, with over 150 Spanish companies operating in the country, collectively creating more than 20,000 jobs over the past decade.

These ties are anchored in shared commitments to multilateralism, international law, and constructive engagement on global challenges—values that both nations continue to champion amid increasing global uncertainty.

Global Democracy Initiative Gains Urgency

At the heart of the visit is the “In Defence of Democracy” Initiative, which seeks to build coordinated international responses to threats such as political polarisation, misinformation, and weakening of democratic norms.

The upcoming meeting is particularly significant as it responds to:

• Growing disregard for international law

• Increasing geopolitical coercion and territorial tensions

• Rising attacks on multilateral institutions

President Ramaphosa is expected to deliver remarks at a plenary session on “Extremism and Inequality,” linking democratic stability with socio-economic inclusion.

South Africa’s Expanding Global Role

On the sidelines of the initiative, President Ramaphosa will also engage with the Global Progressive Mobilisation Group and continue to position South Africa as a key voice in global governance discussions.

His participation follows South Africa’s broader diplomatic push, including the commissioning of the G20 Extraordinary Committee of Independent Experts on Global Inequality, highlighting the country’s leadership on issues of equity and inclusive development.

Economic Diplomacy Takes Centre Stage

Beyond political engagements, the visit also has a strong economic focus. In Madrid, President Ramaphosa is set to:

• Engage with leading Spanish companies

• Promote South Africa’s investment opportunities

• Address the South Africa-Spain Business Forum

These engagements aim to attract further foreign investment, particularly in sectors such as green energy, infrastructure, and digital innovation.

A Relationship Built on Shared Values

The visit follows Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s official trip to South Africa in 2022, during which the foundation for expanded cooperation was laid. Spain continues to view South Africa as a strategic gateway to Africa, while South Africa values Spain’s role as a key European partner.

As global challenges intensify, both countries are positioning their partnership as a model of cooperation grounded in dialogue, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to democratic principles.

President Ramaphosa’s visit to Spain thus reflects not only a strengthening bilateral relationship but also a broader effort to reinforce global alliances at a time when democratic values and multilateral systems are under increasing strain.