EU envoy urges SA flexibility on BEE, flags Ukraine 'double standard'

New EU ambassador Kristian Schmidt publicly defends BEE's principle but calls for flexibility, and criticizes South Africa's perceived 'double standard' on Ukraine, signaling friction in EU-SA relations. He also emphasizes deeper trade, investment, and security ties, indicating a nuanced push for closer partnership despite policy differences. The interview reflects ongoing diplomatic tension over Russia policy and domestic economic regulation.