President Cyril Ramaphosa told Russian President Vladimir Putin that he would use the XVI BRICS Summit to update him and other global leaders on South Africa’s establishment of a government of national unity (GNU).
In his opening remarks at a bilateral meeting with Putin at the Kremlin Residence upon arriving in Kazan, Russia, Ramaphosa expressed gratitude for Putin’s continued support for Pretoria. He remarked, “We are glad to be here to share our journey as South Africa. After our elections in May this year, we have formed a government of national unity (GNU). We will discuss this in detail, as I mentioned in our phone conversation, and explain how our collaborative governance with various parties is progressing to unify and stabilize our country politically.”
This is not the first time Ramaphosa has briefed leaders on the GNU. In July, U.S. President Joe Biden called to congratulate him on his re-election and commended him for successfully forming the GNU.
In recent years, Ramaphosa has utilized global platforms to clarify South Africa’s position on the Ukraine and Russia conflicts, as well as the Palestine-Israel issue. Pretoria has faced criticism for its close ties to Russia and its pro-Palestinian stance, leading to perceived tensions with Western nations.
During the meeting, Ramaphosa reaffirmed that Russia would continue to be a key ally for South Africa. He expressed appreciation for Russia’s support throughout South Africa’s history, especially during the anti-apartheid struggle.
Ramaphosa also expressed eagerness to discuss important geopolitical matters and conveyed confidence in Putin’s leadership of BRICS. The two leaders are expected to address issues including trade, climate change, peace, and global security.
Russia recently took over the BRICS presidency from South Africa, leading to the expansion of the bloc from five to eight member countries. This year’s summit is themed “Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security.”
According to Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, Ramaphosa will outline the priorities of South Africa’s seventh administration, emphasize Russia’s strategic significance, and discuss shared interests with his counterpart during their meeting.
Accompanied by several cabinet ministers, including Ronald Lamola, Angie Motshekga, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, and Parks Tau, Ramaphosa is set to have multiple meetings with BRICS leaders. Magwenya noted that BRICS plays a vital role in a multipolar world by promoting multilateralism, cooperation, and sustainable development.
He emphasized that BRICS aims to restructure global governance to be more equitable and representative, with the expanded bloc now encompassing 43% of the world’s population, 32% of its land area, around 35% of global GDP, and 20% of world exports. This creates opportunities for cooperation that contribute to South Africa’s sustainable growth.
Leaders from Brazil, China, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Iran, Russia, South Africa, and the United Arab Emirates will meet for the first time since new members were invited to join BRICS at the Johannesburg II Summit in August 2023.
Magwenya added that discussions will include assessments of BRICS cooperation, regional and global economic and political developments, and reforms in global governance. Reports from BRICS foreign ministers and finance ministers regarding future developments and local currencies are also anticipated.
On Tuesday evening, Ramaphosa had to attend a cultural welcoming ceremony hosted by Putin, and on Wednesday, he is expected to deliver South Africa’s country statement during the BRICS Plenary session. On Thursday, he will present a second country statement during the BRICS Summit Outreach/BRICS Plus session.