Sunak believes that the United Kingdom and South Africa will drive green economic growth and unlock major infrastructure investments

On Tuesday, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak stated that the United Kingdom and South Africa would work together to drive economic growth and “turbocharge” investment in major infrastructure projects and green hydrogen.

“South Africa is already the UK’s biggest trading partner on the continent, and we have ambitious plans to turbocharge infrastructure investment and economic growth together,” Sunak said.

The United Kingdom and South Africa have announced a new partnership to help young people reach their full potential, including ensuring that South African students develop the most sought-after skills in the fastest-growing sectors and supporting women in business.

The two countries have also formed a partnership to support South Africa’s plans for equitable economic growth, job creation, and inequality reduction, as well as to drive an inclusive and sustainable recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic.

According to UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly, the fact that South Africa is the first country to be welcomed by King Charles demonstrates the UK’s commitment to building partnerships across Africa.

He also expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to meet with International Relations and Cooperation Minister Naledi Pandor to discuss the future of UK-SA relations.

President Cyril Ramaphosa is in the United Kingdom for a two-day state visit at the invitation of King Charles III, who ascended to the throne on September 8 after Queen Elizabeth died after reigning for 70 years and 214 days.

This is the first visit to the UK by a foreign leader in three years.

Sunak will meet Ramaphosa at Downing Street on Tuesday evening for a bilateral meeting.

The late Queen Elizabeth hosted former US President Donald Trump and his wife Melania for a state visit in 2019.