Cape Town – The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has denied claims of strained relations between South Africa and the European Union (EU).
This comes in response to specific media reports alleging South Africa’s failure to address the EU’s invitations for a high-level summit, sparking speculation regarding potential tensions between the two parties.
Additionally, there were claims that South Africa had disregarded the EU summit request for a year.
Nonetheless, DIRCO and the EU delegation to South Africa expressed remorse for the inaccuracies portrayed by the media outlets.
“We would like to reject the claim made by these media outlets that the Republic of South Africa has not responded to several requests by the European Union to hold a bilateral South Africa-European Union Summit during 2023,” the statement read.
DIRCO and the EU delegation regretted the misrepresentation, citing ongoing exchanges and preparations for a bilateral summit since 2023, including ministerial forums and visits.
Despite delays, both parties emphasised the strength of their strategic partnership and ongoing collaboration.
Ambassador Sandra Kramer reaffirmed cooperation, dismissing allegations and affirming efforts towards holding a summit.
Follow African Insider on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Picture: Twitter/@Edgarlegoale
For more African news, visit Africaninsider.com
Compiled by Betha Madhomu
