Cape Town – Russian President Vladimir Putin says there are “promising areas of cooperation” for Russia and South Africa to further strengthen their trade relations.
Putin said this during a bilateral meeting at the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia.
The BRICS Summit, held from October 22-24, serves as a platform for leaders to assess BRICS cooperation, discuss regional and global economic and political developments, and address global governance reform.
“Trade and economic ties between Russia and the Republic of South Africa are generally positive. Following a brief dip, mutual trade volumes have started to increase, rising by 3% in January – August 2024.
“Of course, we need to work jointly on some aspects in order to expand and diversify mutual trade and investment. Promising spheres of cooperation include energy, industry, agriculture, science and innovation,” Putin said.
Putin and Ramaphosa emphasize cooperation for a multi-polar world at 16th BRICS summit.
Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s view of Russia as a valued ally, reflecting on its historical support during the struggle against apartheid.#VioryVideo #Russia #Kazan #SouthAfrica… pic.twitter.com/eQBwWUydHy
— Viory Video (@vioryvideo) October 22, 2024
He emphasised the strong bilateral relationship, grounded in “mutual respect” and a strategic partnership.
“The relevant agencies of our countries collaborated in the financial sector to expand the use of national currencies in mutual settlements and to create an independent payment system.
“Our bilateral relations are based on the principles of a comprehensive strategic partnership, equality and mutual respect. Our political dialogue is progressing, and our foreign policy departments and security councils are actively communicating. Interparliamentary cooperation has been established.
“Russia and the Republic of South Africa closely coordinate their efforts on the international stage to establish a fair multipolar world order,” said Putin.
His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa Holds Bilateral Meeting with President Vladimir Putin Ahead of XVI BRICS Summit
Ahead of the XVI BRICS Summit, His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa of the Republic of South Africa held a bilateral meeting with His Excellency President… pic.twitter.com/PpJVc8QjwJ
— TheDiplomaticInformerSA (@diplomatic_the) October 22, 2024
Putin also discussed Russia’s commitment to strengthening ties with African nations, referencing agreements made at the Russia-Africa Summit, and announced an upcoming ministerial conference in Sochi.
“Russia attaches special significance to strengthening relations with African countries. Collaborative work is underway to implement joint agreements approved at the Russia-Africa Summit in St Petersburg, notably a declaration and an action plan, until 2026.
“We look forward to hosting the head of your foreign policy agency in Sochi for the first ministerial conference of the Russia-Africa Partnership Forum, scheduled for November 9 – 10,” he said.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
