By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Federal President of the Republic of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen, has arrived in South Africa for a four-day working visit.
This is a historic moment as it marks the first time an Austrian head of state visits the country.
Van der Bellen’s visit to South Africa was postponed twice owing to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Van der Bellen was welcomed by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, where they hosted a joint media briefing.
Trade relations between South Africa and Austria have been described as “mutually beneficial” by both nations.
In 2024, South Africa exported €617 million worth of goods to Austria, while Austria imported €661 million worth of goods from South Africa.
Ramaphosa said the long-awaited visit presents an opportunity to consolidate the long-standing and strong relationship between South Africa and Austria, in areas of arts and culture, higher education, renewable energy, trade and investment, and waste management.
The South African government has noted the launch of Austria’s first green hydrogen production facility in 2023, and is eager to explore the Green Hydrogen Economy Strategy and avenues for cooperation.
Austria’s comprehensive national Africa Strategy is also intended to expand cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, digitalisation, energy, enviromental and climate technologies.
“The momentum of South Africa’s structural reform process and our efforts to boost economic growth present unique opportunities for Austrian firms wishing to invest here,” Ramaphosa stated.
He recalled Austria’s role in the anti-apartheid movement, in supporting South Africa’s struggle for democracy.
Ramaphosa described Austria as a valued partner of South Africa and added that Van der Bellen’s visit marked a new chapter in relations.
“Through the Bilateral Consultations we have maintained cordial relations rooted in mutual respect, shared values and a common commitment to multilateralism. We are also committed to deepening investment and trade between our two countries,” he said.
South Africa is Austria’s largest economic and trade partner in Africa, accounting for almost a third of Austria’s total exports to the continent.
There are more than 70 Austrian companies with subsidiaries or agencies in South Africa across a range of sectors.
Ramaphosa pointed out that there was significant potential to deepen investment and trade links in areas such as the green economy, energy, manufacturing, infrastructure development and tourism.
“We share a common commitment to transition our respective economies along a low-carbon, inclusive, climate resilient path,” he said.
Van der Bellen added that the visiting delegation reflects Austria’s commitment to broadening engagement beyond business, including academic and scientific collaboration.
“Our delegation does not only represent business, but also culture and science, with representatives from Austrian universities that enjoy strong relations with South African institutions,” he said.
He also encouraged closer cooperation in tourism, pointing to Austria’s economic success in the sector as a potential model for South Africa.
Meanwhile, Ramaphosa noted that the meeting took place at a time of heightened global insecurity, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, the climate emergency and conflicts in many parts of the world.
Ramaphosa said the events reinforced the need for multilateralism to remain at the centre of world affairs, underscoring the need for the urgent reform of the institutions of global governance, including the United Nations Security Council.
He said South Africa and Austria shared a common commitment to a world free of conflict and war.