The President has highlighted that Africa is a pivotal focus of South Africa’s foreign policy. He emphasized the nation’s commitment to enhancing the African Union (AU) as a key force for peace, stability, integration, and development across the continent.
He outlined South Africa’s significant roles, including chairing the Presidential Infrastructure Champion Initiative and serving as the AU Champion on Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness, and Response.
These statements were made during a session in the National Assembly in Cape Town on Thursday.
A Member of Parliament from uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) questioned the President about the alignment of the Republic’s foreign policy, suggesting it often favors Western interests over African needs. The MP also asked what measures the President is taking to ensure that South Africa remains a leading force in promoting African unity and self-determination.
In reply, President Ramaphosa pointed out that South Africa is working with other nations to advance the African Continental Free Trade Area. This initiative aims to dismantle trade barriers, increase intra-African trade, and enhance prosperity across the continent.
He also mentioned ongoing efforts within the African Union to address conflicts and restore democratic governance in countries recently affected by coups.
An MP from uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) questioned the President about the Republic’s foreign policy, which the MP argued seems more aligned with Western interests rather than addressing African needs. The MP also sought clarification on the President’s actions to maintain the Republic’s leadership in fostering African unity and self-determination.
President Ramaphosa responded by highlighting South Africa’s efforts to collaborate with other nations on the African Continental Free Trade Area. This initiative aims to remove trade barriers, increase intra-African trade, and drive prosperity across the continent.
He also pointed out South Africa’s involvement in the African Union’s efforts to resolve ongoing conflicts, restore democratic governance in countries recently affected by coups, and support stability in Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, South Sudan, and other nations.
Additionally, he mentioned that South Africa, as AU Chair in 2020, led a continent-wide response to the COVID-19 pandemic. This response included developing a unified strategy, creating online platforms for medical supplies, securing international funding, and acquiring vaccines.
Advancing Africa’s Global Influence
South Africa has been a strong advocate for the African agenda on the international stage, notably securing the African Union’s full membership in the G20. The President confirmed that Africa’s priorities will be a major focus during South Africa’s upcoming G20 Presidency.
Furthermore, President Ramaphosa underlined the importance of the BRICS alliance in promoting Africa’s development. During South Africa’s chairmanship of BRICS last year, the country hosted a summit in Johannesburg that included representatives from 46 African nations, including 20 Heads of State and Government.
Pursuing an Independent Foreign Policy
The President highlighted South Africa’s dedication to an independent foreign policy.
“Our foreign policy is designed to advance our national interests while upholding our sovereignty and constitutional framework. It focuses on promoting human rights, maintaining peace and stability, and strengthening trade and investment relations,” he stated.
Since the establishment of democracy, South Africa has adhered to a non-aligned stance, choosing not to affiliate with major global powers or blocs.
“Our goal is to engage with all countries to support global peace and development. We follow our own values and principles and remain committed to the development and prosperity of our continent,” the President added.
Angola Visit and Future Talks
During his recent trip to Angola, President Ramaphosa invited President João Lourenço to visit South Africa officially. An Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) MP inquired if the visit would address issues such as combating illicit trade and illegal substances between the two nations, to protect Africa’s resources like minerals and wildlife.
The President responded that the agenda for the upcoming meeting is being formulated. He added that various Ministers will assist in preparing for the visit, focusing on safety, security, and illegal trade issues, and will present their findings and recommendations to the Heads of State during the official visit.