By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Democratic Alliance (DA) has rejected President Cyril Ramaphosa’s assertion that Russia is an ally and friend of South Africa.
During bilateral discussions with Russia’s Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, Ramaphosa referred to Russia as an important ally, where he is leading South Africa’s participation in the XVI Brics Summit.
The summit is being held between October 22 and 24, where leaders of Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Russia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates are meeting for the first time since new members were invited to join Brics during the last Summit.
Ramaphosa said South Africa continues to see Russia as a valued ally and friend, who supported the country since the days of apartheid.
The DA as a key player in the Government of National Unity (GNU), rejected this characterisation.
“The Democratic Alliance, as a key partner in the Government of National Unity (GNU), rejects this characterisation in no uncertain terms. The Democratic Alliance does not consider Russia, or Vladimir Putin, to be an ally of our nation,” said Steenhuisen.
He said the DA saw Russia as an authoritarian regime, that was “currently violating” international law by waging an “imperialist war of aggression” against a sovereign State.
Steenhuisen said that at a time when South Africa was experiencing “renewed optimism” owing to the GNU, government cannot make statements that could jeopardise international relations and trade opportunities.
“As leader of the Democratic Alliance in the GNU, I reiterate the importance of positions expressed on behalf of the GNU being subject to full and proper debate within the government mechanisms before being announced as positions of the GNU to ensure maximum consensus and agreement amongst the parties to the GNU,” he said.
During his bilateral engagement with Putin, Ramaphosa briefed the Russian leader on the GNU and the SA’s focus on inclusive economic growth, job creation and fighting poverty.
Ramaphosa said that SA is ready to work with the Russia to grow both economies.
Putin said Moscow’s relations with South Africa were based on “strategic partnership, equality, and mutual respect.”
And, of course, Russia attaches particular importance to strengthening relations with the countries of the African continent,” the Kremlin chief added.