President Ramaphosa to Host Austrian President for Strengthening Bilateral Ties

Pretoria, 30 June 2025 — President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to host President Alexander van der Bellen of Austria on Friday, 04 July 2025, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, marking a significant State Visit that aims to deepen the longstanding and cooperative relationship between South Africa and Austria.

The visit is expected to reinforce bilateral ties across a range of strategic sectors, including arts and culture, higher education, renewable energy, trade and investment, and waste management. Both countries have enjoyed warm relations grounded in mutual respect, a commitment to multilateralism, and growing economic and cultural collaboration.

Despite the geographical distance and differences in size and economic structure, South Africa and Austria have steadily cultivated common ground through shared global priorities, such as sustainable development and inclusive economic growth.

As part of the State Visit programme, Presidents Ramaphosa and van der Bellen will jointly address a plenary session of the South Africa–Austria Business Forum. This engagement will bring together business leaders and investors to explore trade opportunities and foster stronger economic cooperation.

The State Visit highlights South Africa’s ongoing efforts to expand its international partnerships and attract investment that supports the country’s national development priorities, particularly in the green economy and innovation-driven industries.