Spain (Kingdom of)

Spain (Kingdom of)

History of Relations

During the period of Socialist rule in Spain the Felipe Gonzalez Government played an active part in the international arena against apartheid, and political contact between Spain and South Africa was strained. The birth of democracy in South Africa has opened the way for unprecedented opportunities in our bilateral relations, in all areas of mutual interest.

There is a remarkable resemblance between Spain's democratisation process, economic empowerment, social development programmes and constitutional reform following the post-Franco era, and that which post-apartheid South Africa is experiencing today. Our aim is now to create an awareness of our common goals and to initiate an active dialogue between our two countries. Technology transfer, joint ventures and direct investment opportunities are prioritised in terms of bilateral contact.

King Juan Carlos of Spain visited South Africa from 14 to 19 February 1999 at the invitation of President Mandela.

The respective Spanish Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs visited South Africa in 1999 and 2000. A Memorandum of Understanding on Consultation was signed in December 2000. Minister Ngubane visited Spain in 2000 and 2001. Deputy Minister A Pahad paid an Official Visit to Spain in June 2003.

Ministers E Pahad and B Ngubane visited Spain in 2002 and in 2003 respectively.

Diplomatic Representation

South African Representation in Spain

H E Ms F S Magubane
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

South African Embassy

Time difference with South Africa :
Summer/April - September : None
Winter/October - March : - 1 hour

Spanish Representation in South Africa

H E Mr P Benavides Orgaz
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary

Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain

Travel Info

Visa requirements for South Africa

For more information contact the Spanish Embassy's visa section.

Health Requirements

None

For further information go to Travelers' Health.

Climate Info

The Plateau has a climate of very short summers with scorching heat and long cold winters as well as low rainfall. Madrid resorts within this area and experiences temperatures that can vary from day to day. The winters are cold, but temperatures never remain below freezing for long and in summer the temperatures are hot (35 degrees) and rise to very hot (48 degrees). The provinces in the north experience a humid climate with high rainfall and lush vegetation. The east and south have a typical very hot Mediterranean climate. The islands have a temperate climate throughout the year.

For up-to-date weather information click here

Currency Info

The monitary unit of Spain has been changed from Peseta to Euro effective from 1 January 2002, (1euro= R10,50).

For current exchange rates click here

State and Official Visits / Bilateral Meetings

No Information

Bilateral Agreements

If you have any queries with regard to treaties please contact the Treaty Section at 012 351 0872/0851/0837.

Trade Info

Spanish investment to South Africa has increased substantially, notably a 50% equity stake in the Platinum N4 Toll Road project, as well as the Acerinox / Columbus investment (Euro 232m stake in Columbus).

For current information on trade statistics between South Africa and Spain, visit the web site of the Department of Trade and Industry of South Africa

Interest Groups and Information

No Information