By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider 

The state visit of Austrian President Alexander van der Bellen to South Africa was consolidated with a press conference at the Union Buildings in Pretoria this afternoon. This state visit comes ahead of the G20 leaders summit in November. 

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has stated that this state visit from the Austrian President, presents an opportunity for the nations to solidify their long-standing relations specifically in areas pertaining to Arts and Culture, higher education, renewable energy, trade and investment, and waste management. The South African government has further highlighted Austria’s first ever green hydrogen production facility in 2023, and is eager to explore the Green Hydrogen Economy Strategy and avenues for cooperation.

 Austria’s national Africa Strategy is intended to expand cooperation in areas regarding infrastructure, digitalisation, energy, environmental 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,” said Ramaphosa.

 President Ramaphosa also made mention of Austria’s role in the anti-apartheid movement in regards to supporting South Africa in achieving democracy. Ramaphosa has described this state visit from the Austrian president as a new chapter in opening relations between the two nations.  

“Through 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,” said Ramaphosa 

South Africa is also Austria’s third largest economic and trading partner in Africa, as the country accounts for a third of Austria’s total exports to the continent. President Ramaphosa expressed that there is a great potential for deepening investment and trade links in areas regarding the green economy, energy, manufacturing, infrastructure development and tourism. 

“We share a common commitment to transition our respect economies along a long-carbon, inclusive, climate resilient path,” Said Ramaphosa 

Austrian President Van Der Bellen praised South Africa for having a non-violent transition into democracy with mentioned South Africa’s revered nickname-”The Rainbow Nation” 

“South Africa has come a long way, overcoming the dark times of Apartheid, but that was certainly a difficult journey. I think a beautiful name, personally which today is a role model for and stability everywhere,” said President Van der Bellen. 

Over 70 Austrian companies operate in South Africa through subsidiaries or local agencies, spanning a variety of sectors.