Federal President of Austria Van der Bellen arrives in SA for 4-day visit

JOHANNESBURG - Federal President of the Republic of Austria, Alexander Van der Bellen, has arrived in South Africa for a four-day working visit. 

This is a historic moment as it marks the first time an Austrian head of state visits the country. 

Van der Bellen will be welcomed by President Cyril Ramaphosa later on Friday at the Union Buildings in Pretoria, where they will host a joint media briefing. 

Trade relations between South Africa and Austria have been described as "mutually beneficial" by both nations. 

In 2024, South Africa exported €617 million worth of goods to Austria, while Austria imported €661 million worth of goods from South Africa.

The Presidency said the working visit would focus on improving the bilateral and economic ties between the two countries. 

This includes sectors like the arts, agriculture and energy. 

The Austrian delegation will be part of a business forum on Friday afternoon with the Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau.