Sub-Saharan Africa: With 49 countries and a population of almost 1.2 billion, sub-Saharan Africa continues to grow in geopolitical significance. China as well as India, the Gulf states and Turkey are extending their influence over the continent. The region has great economic potential but in many places this is poorly or unevenly exploited due to unfavourable conditions and corruption. Sustainable growth – and not only in commodities – is vital to ensure that the rapidly-growing youth population can be integrated in the labour market and to reduce inequalities. Digitalisation offers particular opportunities in sub-Saharan Africa, and can be a growth driver in many countries. At the same time, the region is the scene of many conflicts and suffers from a lack of governance. Switzerland has a great deal of credibility in sub-Saharan Africa. It was never a colonial power, and its neutrality and humanitarian tradition are valued and anchored in the region’s consciousness. Switzerland intends to seize more opportunities and work with the region as a partner to help it tackle the challenges it faces. It is therefore compiling a strategy for cooperation with Africa. The focus is on the following priorities: 1. Peace and security: Stability on the African continent also benefits Switzerland, which is why peacebuilding and combating violent extremism are important. Switzerland’s high level of credibility often enables it to act as a bridge builder. For longer-term stability, democratic participation and protection of human rights will be crucial. Switzerland supports the rule of law and the fight against corruption as basic prerequisites for economic development. Through its humanitarian aid, it also helps mitigate the effects of disasters, conflicts and other emergencies. 2. Prosperity: The promotion of good basic services and sustainable economic growth is a prerequisite for poverty reduction, education, job creation and tackling the root causes of irregular migration. In particular it should improve prospects for young people and women. This key pillar of development can be supported with innovative approaches to international development. Improved framework conditions also increase economic opportunities through enhanced trade and investment. 3. Sustainability: The effects of climate change can be clearly felt in Africa. In the Sahel they are exacerbating the humanitarian crisis and stoking conflicts. Switzerland is responding with a multidimensional approach. As extreme weather events become more common, disaster preparedness and rehabilitation are priorities. 26 Geographical level 4. Digitalisation: The rapid pace of digitalisation also brings solutions that benefit development, such as access to financial services via mobile phone. Switzerland therefore utilises the opportunities offered by new technologies in its work on the ground. Priority country South Africa: South Africa is the only African country in the G20. It is Switzerland’s most important economic partner on the African continent. More than 100 Swiss companies operate in South Africa, and Switzerland is the 9th biggest foreign investor in the country. Conversely, South Africa is one of the few African countries to invest in Switzerland. South Africa is in the process of re-defining its economic policy, which has a direct impact on local companies. This realignment goes well beyond economic priorities. Switzerland and South Africa are engaging in dialogue on a wide range of issues, which shows the diversity and depth of bilateral relations. In the multilateral context (United Nations, African Union), where South Africa plays a leading role within the African continent, there are numerous areas of shared interest. Middle East and North Africa (MENA): The MENA region extends south of the Mediterranean Sea from Morocco to Egypt, and east from Yemen through the countries of the Arabian peninsula to Iran. The region is an important partner for Europe due to its geographical proximity and geopolitical significance, and Switzerland has a direct interest in its stability and economic advancement. While the Gulf states are some of the world’s richest countries and key trading partners for Switzerland, other countries in the region are at war and reliant on humanitarian aid. Numerous ethnic and religious conflicts, as well as poor governance and corruption, are leading to poverty, displacement and irregular migration and jeopardising the development of the countries concerned. A lack of water and the effects of climate change are resulting in food shortages and internal displacement. Population growth and the higher demand this creates for energy and resources are major challenges for countries in this region. In the race for regional supremacy, alliances have been re-defined in recent years. These alliances are not rigid, and the constellations are constantly changing. The wealthy Gulf states, among the world’s largest donors in development cooperation, offer further potential for South-South cooperation in the MENA region. This includes supporting refugees from the region. Inclusive economic development is necessary to give young women and men prospects and to