The annual South Africa-Germany Bi-National Commission (BNC) was held on June 27, 2023, bringing together government officials and dignitaries from both nations. The meeting was led by South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Naledi Pandor, and attended by Federal Minister of Foreign Affairs, Annalena Baerbock, representing Germany. The BNC is a testament to the strong and strategic partnership between South Africa and Germany, which covers various areas such as trade, tourism, climate change, and international cooperation.
Trade Relations
South Africa is Germany’s largest trading partner in Africa, while Germany ranks as South Africa’s third largest export market. The trade surplus is attributed to the value-added nature of South African products, coupled with Germany’s export-oriented economy. Moreover, Germany’s investments in South Africa have significantly contributed to their development.
Tourism
Tourism is another significant aspect of the bilateral relationship, with Germany being the third largest source of overseas tourists to South Africa. Around 350,000 German tourists visited South Africa annually before the COVID-19 pandemic. Although this number dropped significantly in 2021, there are indications of recovery, highlighting the robustness of the bond between the two nations.
International Cooperation
The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of international cooperation in addressing global challenges. Despite disagreements over vaccine equity, Germany emerged as a valuable partner in establishing the mRNA vaccine transfer hub in South Africa. Additionally, both countries are committed to a just energy transition and share concerns over climate change.
Agreed Report
The BNC’s Agreed Report, spanning nearly fifty pages, illustrates the extensive and varied nature of the South Africa-Germany partnership, benefiting citizens of both nations in numerous ways. One such area of mutual interest is the reform of the United Nations, which was discussed during the meeting.
Women, Peace and Security
Dr. Pandor expressed her desire to collaborate with Germany on the Women, Peace and Security agenda, specifically seeking ways to improve the lives of women in countries like Afghanistan and Palestine. Unfortunately, time constraints during Minister Baerbock’s visit did not allow for a detailed exploration of potential projects related to this agenda.
Pressing Global Issues
The global landscape has undergone significant changes since the Tenth BNC in March 2020, which took place at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. As the world faces equally serious challenges, including the war in Ukraine, the bi-national commission provides a platform for South Africa and Germany to navigate these pressing issues together.
Energy Crisis
Addressing the challenges faced by South Africa, such as its energy crisis, Dr. Pandor highlighted the opportunities arising from the development of alternative energy sources like solar, wind, and green hydrogen. The South African government plans to unveil its strategy for electric vehicles in the coming months, which could provide German automotive companies with opportunities for expansion and production of electric vehicles in South Africa.
The Eleventh South Africa-Germany Bi-National Commission emphasizes the unwavering commitment of both nations to strengthen their partnership, cooperate on pressing global issues, and foster mutual growth and development. As the relationship continues to thrive, new avenues of collaboration and support are certain to emerge, benefiting not only South Africa and Germany but the world at large.
