Overview

• President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Dublin on 8 October for official talks with President Michael D. Higgins and Prime Minister Micheál Martin focused on trade, science, innovation, higher education and skills.
• The Presidency says the visit seeks to elevate South Africa–Ireland relations to a strategic partnership to open new collaboration and support mutual economic growth.
• Bilateral trade reached $638 million in 2024, up 12% from 2023, with South African exports rising 40.4% to $168 million and imports from Ireland up 5% to $470 million.
• Ramaphosa is meeting leading Irish companies to promote investment and explore opportunities in green energy, digital innovation and skills development.
• He travels to Brussels on 9–10 October to participate in the EU Global Gateway Forum at the invitation of Ursula von der Leyen, accompanied by senior ministers Ronald Lamola, Bonginkosi Nzimande, Buti Manamela and Solly Malatsi.