By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has sought to allay fears of those sympathetic to the West after his comments reaffirming Russia as a “time-tested friend and ally.”
During bilateral discussions with Russia’s Vladimir Putin, Ramaphosa referred to Russia as an important ally, where he was leading South Africa’s participation in the XVI Brics 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 Democratic Alliance (DA) as a key player in the Government of National Unity (GNU), rejected this characterisation.
John Steinhuisen, leader of the DA and Minister of Agriculture criticized Ramaphosa’s position, saying that it endangers South Africa’s relations with the West and called for a consensus on the country’s foreign policy within the unity government.
“In declaring President Putin and the people of Russia as “valuable friends and allies”, Ramaphosa was not projecting any particular country or block of countries as the enemy. Similarly, as a country that has no enemies, South Africa regards the members of BRICS as friends,” the presidency statement said.
The statement highlighted South Africa’s non-alignment policy, which enables the country to engage constructively with both Russia and Ukraine.
Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of the UN Charter and the need for peaceful dialogue in resolving conflicts. While South Africa has strong historical ties with Russia, it also fosters diplomatic relations with Ukraine, demonstrating its commitment to a peace process that involves both nations.
“South Africa will maintain a foreign policy that is informed by solidarity, peace, equality, human rights and sustainable development for the benefit of all. This is the responsibility that Ramaphosa will continue to exercise without any undue pressure and in line with South Africa’s national sovereign interest,” read the statement.
South Africa will play an important international role in 2025 as president of the G20. The G20 is a group of 19 countries as well as the African Union and the European Union.
Between them they represent 85% of global economy, 75% of world trade and 67% of global population. The G20 defines itself as the premier multilateral forum for international economic cooperation.
During its G20 presidential year, South Africa will host a summit of heads of state and government.
South Africa will continue working towards strengthening the strategic, trade and political bilateral relationships with key partners including the Peoples Republic of China, United States of America, Germany, Japan, India and others.