On 19 May 2025, the North-West University’s (NWU’s) Vanderbijlpark Campus hosted a distinguished public lecture on European Union (EU) - South African relations, featuring Her Excellency Mrs Sandra Kramer, EU ambassador to the Republic of South Africa, and Mr Fulgencio Garrido Ruiz, EU deputy ambassador.

Ambassador Kramer delivered a compelling address focusing on the evolving relationship between South Africa and the EU. She reflected on the EU’s origins as a peace initiative after World War II, grounded in core values such as democracy, human rights, freedom, and the rule of law. Her address contextualised the EU's role in a rapidly changing world shaped by global economic trends, digitalisation, and climate change.

The keynote theme - “European Union-South African Relations” - highlighted the strategic alignment between the two partners. With a shared motto of “United in Diversity,” Ambassador Kramer reaffirmed the EU’s support for South Africa’s G20 priorities of equality, diversity and sustainability. She stressed the common interest in boosting economic and social development, enhancing competitiveness, and creating jobs.

A significant focus of her address was the outcomes of the eighth EU-South Africa Summit, which included initiatives on trade, clean energy investment, critical raw materials, and peace and security cooperation. Ambassador Kramer echoed the message of EU president Ursula von der Leyen: “We are here to stay,” underlining the EU’s commitment to a long-term, values-based partnership with South Africa.

The presence of both ambassador Kramer and deputy ambassador Garrido Ruiz signified the EU’s dedication to strengthening its ties with South Africa through mutual respect, collaboration, and shared global responsibilities.

From left are Prof Dumi Moyo, executive dean of the Faculty of Humanities, Prof Sibusiso Chalufu, acting deputy vice-chancellor for Vanderbijlpark Campus operations, Mrs Sandra Kramer, EU ambassador, and Mr Fulgencio Garrido Ruiz, EU deputy ambassador.