South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed his strong ties with Moscow, referring to Russia as a “valued ally” and friend during a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the BRICS summit in Kazan.
Leaders from over 20 countries gathered for the three-day event, where Putin aims to form stronger alliances to challenge what he describes as the West’s dominance.
Ramaphosa highlighted Russia’s longstanding support for South Africa, saying, “We have always seen Russia as a trusted ally, from the days of our fight against Apartheid to where we are today.”
Putin echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the close relationship between the two nations. He described the bond as a “strategic partnership built on equality and mutual respect.” He further added, “Russia is deeply committed to enhancing its relations with African nations.”
While BRICS held its 2023 summit in Johannesburg, Putin opted not to attend due to an International Criminal Court warrant for his arrest, as South Africa is a member of the ICC.
Although South Africa has abstained from voting on UN resolutions condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, it has consistently called for peace. Last year, South Africa even led an African “peace mission” to both Russia and Ukraine, seeking to bring an end to the conflict.
