PARIS – SA Vice President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has politely called French President Emmanuel Macron at his residence, Palais de I'élysee.
Vice President Machatair, visiting France, was accompanied by ministers, vice ministers and business leaders of South Africa and France today (Wednesday, May 22, 2025).
“This meeting followed a successful investment conference where a commitment was made to make trade relations between the two countries more luxurious,” the SA President said in a statement available to Brush.
“In spite of geopolitical challenges, South Africa remains committed to a global trade and investment climate aimed at sustainable and impactful global economic growth.”
The meeting with President Macron focused on strengthening trade and diplomatic cooperation and cooperation in the multilateral FORA.
“The importance of economic cooperation between the two countries is to bridge the gap between the south and the north, thereby creating a trade equilibrium,” the statement said.
“During the meeting, the Vice President showed that the presence of more than 400 French companies employing more than 65,000 South Africans in South Africa is evidence of the value proposition that South Africa offers.
“However, the Vice President noted that there has been a decline in bilateral trade over the past two years, supported by declines in both imports and exports.
“It was therefore wise for South Africa to step up its efforts to increase bilateral trade through its involvement in businesses and businesses.”
The first SA-France Investment Conference was a step in the right direction to expand existing cooperation and identify new areas of cooperation with a specific focus on trade and investment.
The conference continues on a biennial basis to further inventories of established partnerships and explore other areas of cooperation.
President Macron welcomed Vice President Mashatair and his delegation and praised South Africa's decision to strengthen trade and bilateral relations.
“He reiterated his commitment to France and South Africa to continue to work together on various multilateral platforms for diplomacy and peace,” the statement revealed.
“President Macron has confirmed he will be coming to South Africa to attend the G20.
“In conclusion, the two leaders agreed that this involvement would further strengthen bonds between the business sectors of South Africa and France, and unlock more potential investments.”
