EU mulls key pact with South Africa

The European Commission is to propose making South Africa a ‘strategic partner’ by forging a pact similar to ones already struck with the United States and China. The Commission has set out its ideas for a partnership – its sixth such pact – in a document to be considered by the EU’s 25 member state governments and EU lawmakers

The document sets out a comprehensive long-term framework for the EU’s relations with South Africa, which takes account of the country’s position as an anchor in the region and its important role on the African continent and in international relations. The strategic partnership will also develop stronger economic cooperation by including related areas such as trade and social, cultural and environmental concerns.