Farnesina: bilateral political consultations between Italy and South Africa led by Deputy Minister Cirielli and South African Deputy Foreign Minister Alvin Botes

They took place on November 21st at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs bilateral political consultations between Italy and South Africa. Deputy Minister Edmondo Cirielli and the Deputy Foreign Minister of South Africa, Alvin boats, led their respective delegations.

Deputy Minister Cirielli congratulated South Africa on the democratic tradition of the country, thirty years after the end of Apartheid, and for the next South African Presidency of the G20. Italy and South Africa have underlined the importance of bilateral consultations as bridge between the G7 Presidency, held by Italy in 2024, and the G20 Presidency which the South Africa will hire for the first time from 1 December 2024. Italy and South Africa have recognized the key role played by both countries in their respective multilateral forums, starting with the United Nations.

Deputy Minister Cirielli recalled how the strengthening of the ties between Rome and Pretoria represents an important step for the growth of the respective peoples. South Africa is a significant economic partner for Italy in sub-Saharan Africa, as demonstrated by the levels of bilateral trade, which in 2023 amounted to 4,5 billion euros. The Italian community in the country It has approximately 37.000 compatriots, resulting in the largest number on the continent and boasting full integration into society.

The development and stability of the African continent, in which South Africa plays a leading role, are issues of utmost attention for Italy, which has also promoted within the G7 projects in line with the Mattei Plan for Africa, based on a logic of parity. In this context, interesting prospects are also offered to South Africa by Italian Climate Fund. The Parties reaffirmed their commitment to continue their cooperation in the future bilateral and multilateral cooperation.