The South African president has ended a two-day state visit to the UK, the first since King Charles took the throne, with a banquet at the Guildhall.  It was a great pleasure to join the delegation and discuss the ties of culture, history and the economy.  

Our trade in goods and services with South Africa was £10.7 billion in 2022, an important partnership making South Africa the UK’s 27th largest trading partner.  A visit that reminded us of our great connection and I hope a successful event for all concerned.