The European Union Reception on the occasion of recently elected President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) took place in Cape Town on 19/06/2019. The grand occasion, jointly hosted by the EU Delegation to South Africa and the German Embassy, was attended by senior government, business and civil society representatives as well as many good friends of the Europe

(L to R): German Ambassador Martin Schäfer and celebrity master of ceremonies Joanne Strauss look on as EU Ambassador Marcus Cornaro highlights South Africa’s and the EU’s commitment to democracy, noting that not only did the EU support South Africa’s recent electoral process but that South Africa’s Independent Electoral Commission observed the EU’s recent parliamentary elections in Brussels.

The event enjoyed capacity attendance - here EU Ambassador Marcus Cornaro is seen addressing the over 600 guests, with Trade and Industry Minister Ebrahim Patel looking on from the front row.  

EU Ambassador Marcus Cornaro and German Ambassador Martin Schäfer in conversation with Mr Ebrahim Patel, South Africa’s newly appointed Minister of Trade and Industry.

South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation was represented by Director General Kgabo Mahoai.

VIPs in attendance: newly appointed Members of Parliament 

(L to R) Former Constitutional Court Judge Albie Sachs, EU Ambassador Marcus Cornaro and South Africa’s deeply respected former Public Protector, Adv Thuli Madonsela. 

(L to R) Western Cape Premier Alan Winde (DA), MC Joanne Strauss, Leader of the Opposition Mmusi Maimane (DA), and German Ambassador Martin Schäfer.