Brussels, 12/09/2011 (Agence Europe) - Future of Libya, the Middle East peace process, the next G20 meeting (in Cannes, France, in November), the Durban Climate Conference (COP 17, at the end of the year): it is no overstatement to say that the EU-South Africa Summit of 15 September, the fourth of its kind since the two parties concluded a strategic partnership in 2007, will take place at an important, turbulent time in international affairs (see EUROPE 10449). That South Africa is at one and the same time an emerging economy which is a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council and the host country of the next UN climate conference gives ground for hope on the part of the EU of some alignment of positions on the major political issues.
In the run-up to the conference, European Council President Herman Van Rompuy said that he was looking forward to “important discussions with President Zuma on peace and security and on global economic governance”. He added: “South Africa is a valuable partner for the EU. Together, we can address global challenges such as climate change or food security”.
European Commission President José Manuel Barroso said that “this summit comes at a crucial juncture just ahead of decisive international meetings. As an important voice in the continent and in the world, South Africa is a key partner for the European Union, and we want to deepen our engagement. I look forward in particular to discuss with President Zuma the upcoming G20 Summit in Cannes and the preparations for the Durban Climate Conference where the EU is committed to achieve a positive outcome for Europe, Africa and the world”.
EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton will be unable to attend the summit as she will be in Israel, engaged in efforts on the Middle East peace process. She will be represented by Nicholas Westcott, Director for Africa at the European External Action Service. (A.N./transl.rt)