President Cyril Ramaphosa is on an official working visit to Ireland, where he aims to enhance bilateral relations and expand trade between the two nations. Accompanied by Deputy President Paul Mashatile, Ramaphosa is focusing on attracting new investment and building on existing economic links.
Ireland remains South Africa’s largest trading partner in Africa, with major imports including aircraft, data processing machinery, and pharmaceutical products. According to Ramaphosa, trade between the two countries rose by 12% to $638 million in 2024, up from just over $500 million the previous year.
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Growing Investment and Cultural Connections
The president emphasised the strong cultural and investment ties that continue to unite South Africa and Ireland. “According to the Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria, South Africa imported approximately 46 million Euros of Irish whiskey last year,” Ramaphosa said.
“This is one of the many Irish traditions that we South Africans cherish and celebrate. A number of South African companies have investments in Ireland, just as several Irish companies have an established presence in our country.
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“We are keen to strengthen and deepen these ties and to build links between Ireland and the African continent more broadly.”
Ireland’s Role in the G20 and Global Cooperation
Ramaphosa also noted that Ireland would participate in the upcoming G20 summit as one of South Africa’s invited guest nations, joining Nigeria, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates.
“We are pleased that Ireland is actively participating in the G20 as a guest country,” he stated. “For the G20 to retain its relevance in today’s turbulent world, it must address issues of development, debt sustainability, climate action, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.”
The President’s visit underscores South Africa’s ongoing commitment to deepening global partnerships and fostering inclusive economic growth.
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