On the third day of the BRICS summit, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa underscored the urgent need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza while also emphasizing the importance of socio-economic and cultural development among member nations. He stated, “South Africa welcomes Russian initiatives that are aimed at strengthening BRICS nations’ development to increase our interconnectedness,” emphasizing the need for collaboration. Ramaphosa welcomed these initiatives, particularly through enhanced transport networks and connectivity, which he asserted would promote integration and deepen interconnectedness within the bloc.
He highlighted the role of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a vital mechanism for unlocking trade and investment opportunities for both local and global businesses. “This will lead to an integrated and connected continent,” he noted, referring to the potential benefits of the initiative.
Ramaphosa also drew attention to the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and its flagship project, the Single African Air Transport Market, aimed at creating a unified transport market in Africa to support economic integration. He urged BRICS and its allies to leverage these projects to enhance global connectivity and trade facilitation, emphasizing that success in these areas requires a stable and peaceful environment.
Expressing deep concern over the ongoing military actions in Gaza, Ramaphosa described the situation as “genocide,” stating that “genocide in Gaza is deeply concerning.” This prompted Pretoria to appeal to the International Court of Justice to stop the military operations in the region, as well as to help establish a recognized Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in accordance with international law.
The president reaffirmed Africa’s unwavering support for efforts to establish a viable Palestinian state alongside Israel, advocating for recognition of borders based on the 1967 agreements. He highlighted the need for lasting solutions to conflicts not only in Gaza but also in Sudan and the Great Lakes region, areas suffering from prolonged unrest.
Ramaphosa stressed the importance of peaceful resolution and inclusive dialogue in addressing disputes and safeguarding states’ abilities to pursue independent foreign policies. He called for the strengthening and reform of global institutional mechanisms to enhance their roles in maintaining international peace and security.
“We cannot allow conflicts to continue indefinitely,” he remarked, emphasizing the need for sustainable development as a pathway to peace. Ramaphosa concluded by affirming the importance of supporting nations striving to break the cycle of conflict and choose the path of peace, advocating for a long-lasting interconnected and prosperous world.
