The Embassy of Austria Pretoria recently hosted a strategic engagement with representatives from Johannesburg-based think tank Meridian17. The meeting, led by Ambassador Romana Königsbrun, brought together key voices to discuss Austria’s newly introduced Africa Strategy and the evolving dynamics of partnership between the two continents.
A Fresh Perspective on Africa–Europe Cooperation
The visit by Benjamin Livestro and Dr. Kelly Alexander of Meridian17 provided an opportunity for what the Embassy described as a “fruitful exchange” on the priorities shaping Austria’s engagement with Africa. Central to the discussion was the concept of the “missing middle” — a critical gap in Africa–Europe cooperation that often overlooks the role of business in driving real economic outcomes.
While traditional frameworks have focused heavily on policy development and aid, the dialogue highlighted a growing consensus: sustainable partnerships must be anchored in economic collaboration and private sector engagement.
The “Missing Middle” Explained
Meridian17’s work challenges long-standing assumptions in international cooperation. As noted during the engagement:
“Most think tanks approach this relationship through the lens of policy or development. Neither puts business at the centre — yet business is where policy either works or doesn’t.”
This perspective underscores a crucial reality. Policies and development programmes, while essential, often fail to translate into tangible growth without active participation from businesses that operate on the ground. By addressing this “missing middle,” stakeholders aim to bridge the gap between high-level agreements and real-world economic impact.
Austria’s Africa Strategy: A Business-Focused Approach
Austria’s new Africa Strategy reflects a deliberate shift toward integrating business as a cornerstone of international cooperation. The strategy recognises that trade, investment, and entrepreneurship are vital drivers of sustainable development across African economies.
Ambassador Romana Königsbrun’s engagement with Meridian17 signals Austria’s intention to deepen partnerships that go beyond diplomatic dialogue, placing emphasis on practical economic collaboration. This approach aligns with broader global trends that prioritise mutually beneficial trade relationships over traditional aid models.
Strengthening South Africa–Austria Relations
Hosting this discussion in Pretoria highlights South Africa’s role as a strategic gateway for European engagement on the continent. As one of Africa’s most advanced economies, South Africa provides a critical platform for piloting innovative approaches to international cooperation.
Through partnerships with organisations like Meridian17, Austria is positioning itself to better understand and engage with the complexities of African markets, particularly in areas where small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a transformative role.
From Dialogue to Action
The meeting between the Austrian Embassy and Meridian17 marks more than just a diplomatic exchange — it reflects a broader shift in how Africa–Europe relations are being conceptualised. By prioritising business as a key driver, both parties are advocating for a model of cooperation that is pragmatic, results-oriented, and sustainable.
As Austria advances its Africa Strategy, continued collaboration with think tanks, businesses, and policymakers will be essential in translating vision into measurable impact.
