The Embassy of Belgium in Pretoria celebrated King’s Day on 15th November 2024. H.E. Mr Paul Jansen welcomed Minister Mzamo Buthelezi, Minister of Public Service and Administration, and Minister Jeff Radebe, Special Envoy from the Great Lakes region, along with other honourable guests.
Belgium and South Africa have been long-time friends. Belgium looks forward to the 5th edition of the Joint Commission, which will take place in Brussels on 18th December 2024, providing an opportunity for high-level discussions on all aspects of the rich relationship between the two countries. Another example of their excellent bilateral relations was the successful state visit in 2023 by King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, which further strengthened the close ties between Belgium and South Africa at the highest level.
Economic and trade relations between the two nations are particularly strong and mutually beneficial. Belgian exports to South Africa have stabilised around 20 billion Rands over the years, with 1,480 Belgian companies exporting goods to South Africa and 2,450 companies expressing interest in the South African market.
Within the EU, Belgium remains the 3rd largest importer of goods from South Africa, with total imports valued at €2.7 billion. These imports consist mainly of precious stones, precious metals, transport materials, chemical products, and metal products. The bilateral trade balance remains strongly in favour of South Africa, with a trade surplus of €1.15 billion.
Additionally, approximately 50,000 Belgian tourists visit South Africa annually, with numbers increasing following the pandemic.
Minister Buthelezi congratulated Belgium on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa.
Guests raised a toast to the continuing friendship between Belgium and South Africa.
by Marion Kate
