Germany sees potential in Mauritania, Nigeria, South Africa as key partners for Europe

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul emphasized the significant potential for Europe in strengthening cooperation with Mauritania, Nigeria, and South Africa. He stated that robust partnerships with African nations are crucial, especially during times of global geopolitical upheaval.

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Precisely in times of geopolitical upheavals on a global scale, solid cooperation with our African partners is important.

Wadephul views cooperation with these countries as more than just an interest in a stable and prosperous neighboring continent. He highlighted Mauritania's role as a "stable state" and "reliable partner" within the highly fragile Sahel region. "The prolonged crisis in the Sahel poses enormous humanitarian and security challenges for the country. Germany is prepared to provide even greater support in this area," Wadephul said, stressing that stability in the Sahel is clearly in Germany's and Europe's interest.

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For Germany and Europe, more is at stake than the obvious interest in a neighboring continent that is, as far as possible, stable and prosperous.

Turning to Nigeria, the minister acknowledged its status as a regional power. He also noted the recent elevation of Germany's relationship with South Africa to a "strategic partnership." Wadephul pointed out South Africa's importance to the German economy, with approximately 600 German companies operating there and South Africa being Germany's most significant trading partner in Africa.

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stable state and reliable partner

"South Africa is also a fundamental benchmark for the German economy," Wadephul stated, specifically mentioning the "considerable opportunities, especially in the field of energy and raw materials cooperation" that the country offers. German foreign ministry data indicates that the German economy is South Africa's second-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade valued at approximately 20 billion euros.

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The prolonged crisis in the Sahel poses enormous humanitarian and security challenges for the country. Germany is prepared to provide even greater support in this area.