BRICS Summit: South Africa Affirms Strong Ties With Russia

During a meeting at the BRICS summit in Kazan, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized that he views Russia as a “valued ally” and friend.

Ramaphosa made this statement while discussing the historical support Russia has provided to South Africa, dating back to its fight against apartheid.

At the summit, which gathers leaders from two dozen nations, President Vladimir Putin reaffirmed the importance of the strategic partnership between Russia and South Africa, highlighting mutual respect and equality as the foundation of their relationship.

Putin also expressed his commitment to strengthening ties with African nations, noting the significance of these relationships amid global geopolitical tensions.

In a notable context, South Africa has navigated a delicate diplomatic path by abstaining from UN resolutions condemning Russia’s military actions in Ukraine, while advocating for peace through an African-led initiative aimed at resolving the conflict.

This meeting comes after Putin’s absence from the previous BRICS summit held in Johannesburg due to an International Criminal Court warrant for his arrest, underscoring the complexities of international diplomacy in the current climate.