EU-South Africa Summit To Be Held Thursday

A South Africa-EU Summit will be held in Kruger, South Africa on Thursday 15 September 2011.

The EU will be represented by Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council, and by José Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission. The Republic of South Africa will be represented by President Jacob Zuma. Commissioner for Development Andris Piebalgs and Commissioner for Trade Karel De Gucht will also be attending the Summit.

This fourth South Africa-EU Summit will provide an opportunity to strengthen the strategic dialogue between the EU and South Africa and to discuss a number of key issues, in particular global governance, climate change, trade, development issues, the Joint Africa-EU strategy, the South Africa-EU strategic partnership and peace and security topics in Africa.

A strong spirit of co-operation already exists between the EU and South Africa and materialises through an impressive range of political, trade and economic matters, but also on issues such as science and technology, energy, migration or health.

The President of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy said ahead of the meeting, “I look forward to important discussions with President Zuma on peace and security and on global economic governance. South Africa is a valuable partner for the EU. Together, we can address global challenges such as climate change or food security.”

The President of the European Commission José Manuel Barroso stated, “this Summit comes at a crucial juncture just ahead of decisive international meetings. As an important voice in the continent and in the world, South Africa is a key partner for the European Union, and we want to deepen our engagement. I look forward in particular to discuss with President Zuma the upcoming G20 Summit in Cannes and the preparations for the Durban Climate Conference where the EU is committed to achieve a positive outcome for Europe, Africa and the world.”