In an exclusive interview with CNBC Africa, Ireland's Minister of State for International Development and Diaspora, Neale Richmond, stressed the need to strengthen ties between Ireland and South Africa amid changing global dynamics. The dialogue takes place during Richmond's visit to South Africa, a visit aimed at deepening cultural, economic and political partnerships.
Richmond explained the significance of his visit to Johannesburg, Pretoria and Cape Town as part of Ireland's global outreach on St. Patrick's Day – a tradition where 40 Irish government ministers spread across 54 countries to engage with the Irish diaspora and strengthen international ties. “This year, I had the pleasure of visiting Mozambique and then South Africa, home to approximately 40,000 Irish passport holders,” Richmond said. His visit underlines the importance Ireland attaches to its relationship with South Africa, Africa's largest economy and a major player on the continent and the world stage.
Richmond said trade between Ireland and South Africa is booming, with a record €8 billion worth of goods and services exchanged last year. He credited South Africa's invitation to Ireland as a guest of the G20 for strengthening the relationship, saying, “This is the strongest case we have ever made in history.” Irish companies, particularly in fintech, are making significant progress and employ approximately 12,500 people in South Africa, while many South Africans are also employed by Irish companies.
The Minister highlighted Ireland's role as a global gateway to the EU, the UK and North America and expressed his desire to see South Africa act as a similar gateway to the African region. This mutual perception bodes well for future cooperation, particularly in life sciences and technology, areas where Ireland is a recognized leader.
Beyond economic interests, Richmond addressed broader geopolitical issues, emphasizing Ireland's advocacy for increasing Africa's representation in multilateral institutions. Richmond advocated for permanent African seats on the UN Security Council, saying, “Europe and Africa represent 40% of the global population, yet Africa does not have a strong enough voice.”
Richmond also regretted the current reversal in the rule of international law and praised South Africa's firm stance in the International Court of Justice in relation to Israel and Gaza. “We have taken a very strong stance, standing up for what is morally right,” he said, reinforcing Ireland's commitment to fostering alliances that uphold human rights and international law.
Amidst these evolving global alliances, Richmond acknowledged the existential crisis facing multilateral systems, particularly the United Nations, and highlighted Ireland's desire to engage with like-minded countries such as South Africa in necessary reforms. Urging united action among nations committed to the international system, he commented, “The multilateral system will probably never return to the state it was in, but we now have the opportunity to improve.”
As the global political landscape changes, Ireland's proactive approach in strengthening its African ties, particularly with South Africa, signals a strategic move to enhance influence and cooperation in an increasingly complex international arena.