Netherlands to work for successful G20
20 May 2025
The Netherlands has reiterated its commitment to work for a successful G20 meeting which South Africa will host later this year. This is according to Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, Caspar Veldkamp in a joint communiqué following the fourth meeting of the South Africa - Netherlands Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) on Monday.
“The Ministers discussed the progress of South Africa’s G20 Presidency to which the Netherlands was invited for all meetings including the Leaders’ Summit. Minister Veldkamp reiterated that the Netherlands will continue to work for a successful G20, the first on African soil, under South Africa's Presidency,” the communiqué read.
South Africa is set to host the Group of Twenty (G20) Summit in November 2025. The G20 is an international forum of both developing and developed countries which seeks to find solutions to global economic and financial issues.
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola co-chaired the JCC in the Hague alongside Minister Veldkamp.
In a statement on Monday, the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation said the high-level dialogue between the Ministers underscored the enduring partnership between the two nations.
At the JCC, the Ministers noted the outcomes of the recent South Africa – European Union Summit and the agreement to start negotiations on a Clean Trade and Investment Partnership.
“The Ministers expressed their commitment to a fruitful and successful Third AU-EU Ministerial meeting on 20 May 2025 in Brussels, paving the way for an AU-EU Summit in June 2025,” the communiqué stated.
Held in Cape Town in March, President Cyril Ramaphosa described the 8th South Africa-European Union (EU) Summit as a “watershed” moment for trade and investment relations between South Africa and the regional bloc.
“As a bloc, the European Union (EU) is one of South Africa’s largest trading partners and the source of much investment in our country. Our economic ties with European countries go back to colonial times. Since the advent of democracy 30 years ago, we have steadily been growing the volume and value of trade,” the President said.
Additionally, the Ministers underlined the strong relations between South Africa and the Netherlands.
“The Ministers underlined the strong, broad and friendly relationship between the Netherlands and South Africa, recalling the State Visit of Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima to South Africa in 2023.
“The Ministers noted the progress that has been made in fostering the relationship between the two countries since the Third Meeting of the Joint Commission was held in Pretoria on 18 October 2023,” noted the communiqué.
SAnews.gov.za
Minister Lamola arrives in Netherlands for Joint Cooperation Commission
19 May 2025
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola is in the Hague where he is attending the fourth Joint Cooperation Commission (JCC) between South Africa and the Netherlands. In a statement on Monday, the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation said the high-level dialogue between the Minister and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Netherlands, Caspar Veldkamp, underscores the enduring partnership between the two nations.
The Ministry said the partnership is rooted in shared values and a commitment to advancing mutual priorities across strategic sectors.
“The JCC serves as a cornerstone of bilateral relations, fostering collaboration in areas critical to sustainable development and inclusive growth. Key focal points of this year’s discussions include advancing cooperation in agriculture, water and waste management, and energy security, reflecting both nations’ dedication to climate resilience and food sustainability.”
Cyber-security, innovations in digitalisation, trade and investment, and higher education, science, and innovation will also feature prominently, highlighting the role of technology and knowledge exchange in driving economic progress.
Further, the Commission will deepen partnerships in arts and culture to strengthen people-to-people ties.
Additionally, environmental stewardship remains a shared priority, with joint initiatives aimed at protecting ecosystems and advancing green transitions.
“Our collaboration transcends traditional diplomacy, embracing pragmatic solutions to global challenges. By aligning our expertise in these pivotal sectors, we reaffirm our commitment to a future marked by equity, innovation, and shared prosperity,” said the Minister.
Minister Lamola emphasised the importance of the JCC as a platform to deepen South Africa’s engagement with the Netherlands.
The Ministry said the outcomes of the JCC are expected to yield actionable frameworks to enhance bilateral cooperation, reinforcing the robust ties between South Africa and the Netherlands.
“Both nations remain steadfast in their resolve to leverage this partnership for the benefit of their citizens,” said the Ministry.
SAnews.gov.za