The European Union and China have declared their support for South Africa following the recent sanctions announced by the United States. These global powers have expressed their solidarity with South Africa and emphasized their commitment to multilateralism, social justice, and equality.
The United States imposed sanctions on South Africa due to a disagreement over the country’s land reform policies. President Donald Trump signed an executive order cutting aid to South Africa, accusing the nation of implementing “racist” laws that forcefully took land from white owners. However, South Africa has vehemently denied these accusations, stating that its land reform policies are in accordance with the laws of the land.
In response to the sanctions, the European Union member countries, including France, Germany, and Italy, have expressed their shared commitment to multilateralism, the rule of law, non-racialism, and non-sexism in South Africa. These countries have emphasized their support for South Africa’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and efforts to promote social justice and equality.
European Union President, António Costa, took to social media to declare the EU’s readiness to strengthen ties with South Africa. Costa informed South African President Cyril Ramaphosa of the EU’s full support for South Africa’s leadership of the G20 and its ambition to address pressing global issues through multilateral cooperation and the Pact for the Future.
The Ambassadors of Germany, Italy, and France also expressed their unilateral support for South Africa in a video shared on social media. Germany’s ambassador, Andreas Peschke, highlighted the shared values and parallels between Germany and South Africa. Italy’s ambassador, Alberto Vecchi, emphasized the commitment of both nations to multilateralism, equity, and global justice. France’s ambassador, David Martinon, underlined the importance of constitutions and the principles of a non-racist, non-sexist democracy in both countries.
The European Union delegate and deputy ambassador, Pecho Ruiz, reiterated the belief in solidarity, equality, and sustainability principles. As South Africa’s most important trading and investment partner, the European Union and its member states stand firmly by South Africa’s side.
China, another key player on the global stage, has also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with South Africa. The Chinese Ambassador to South Africa, Wu Peng, highlighted the significant trade relationship between the two countries. In 2024, China-South Africa trade reached $52
R973.60
R973.42.5 billion, accounting for 18% of total China-Africa trade. South Africa maintained a trade surplus of $9
R168.51
R165.29 billion with China. Wu also confirmed that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi would attend the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg, further solidifying the bond between China and South Africa.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa currently serves as the leader of the G20, which comprises 19 countries, including the United States. South Africa is set to host a G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg from February 20–21. However, the United States has announced that it will not attend this year’s meeting. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cited recent tensions between the two nations as the reason for his non-participation.
In conclusion, the European Union and China have stood in solidarity with South Africa amid the dispute with Donald Trump and the United States. These global powers have expressed their unwavering support for South Africa’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, and commitment to multilateralism, social justice, and equality. As South Africa continues to navigate these challenging times, it can rely on the support and partnership of the European Union, China, and other nations that share its values.
