Faith Nyasuguta
China and European Union member countries have declared their support for South Africa following U.S. sanctions triggered by a dispute over land reform policies.
The sanctions were imposed after President Donald Trump signed an executive order cutting aid to South Africa, accusing the country of implementing “racist” laws that forcefully seized land from white owners. South Africa has denied these allegations, insisting that its land reform efforts are lawful and aimed at addressing historical inequalities.
EU Nations Express Solidarity
European Union countries, including France, Germany, and Italy, have emphasized their commitment to South Africa’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, reaffirming their support for the nation’s push for social justice and equality. The countries expressed solidarity through diplomatic channels and social media.
European Union President Antonio Costa publicly voiced his backing for South Africa, highlighting the EU’s readiness to strengthen bilateral relations and recognize South Africa as a dependable partner. In a post on X, Costa stated, “I expressed the EU’s full support for South Africa’s leadership of the G20 and its ambition to enhance multilateral cooperation and address pressing global challenges.”
The ambassadors of Germany, Italy, and France echoed similar sentiments in a joint statement on X. Germany’s Ambassador to South Africa, Andreas Peschke, stressed the shared values between the two nations, while Italy’s Ambassador Alberto Vecchi emphasized their mutual commitment to multilateralism, equity, and global justice.
France’s Ambassador David Martinon noted the importance of non-racial, non-sexist democracy, highlighting the constitutional principles both countries hold dear.
EU Deputy Ambassador Pecho Ruiz also showcased the strong economic and strategic ties between South Africa and the European Union, stating, “As South Africa’s most important trading and investment partner, the European Union stands by shared values of solidarity, equality, and sustainability.”
China Reaffirms Strategic Partnership
China also expressed its support for South Africa amid tensions with the United States. Chinese Ambassador to South Africa, Wu Peng, reiterated China’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing economic cooperation.
In a statement on X, Wu highlighted that China-South Africa trade reached $52.5 billion in 2024, accounting for 18% of China-Africa trade, with South Africa maintaining an $8.83 billion trade surplus.
Ambassador Wu also confirmed that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi would attend the upcoming G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg, demonstrating China’s continued engagement with South Africa on the global stage.
G20 Diplomatic Challenges
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who currently chairs the G20, is set to host a G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg from February 20–21. However, the U.S. has announced its decision not to attend, citing ongoing tensions over land reform policies. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed his absence, signaling a continued diplomatic rift between Washington and Pretoria.
The dispute over land reform has drawn international attention, with South Africa receiving significant backing from China and EU nations. The situation continues to evolve as global powers navigate complex geopolitical alliances and economic interests.
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