Diplomatic efforts to end the war with a just peace, the release of military and civilian prisoners, and the return of Ukrainian children illegally deported and displaced by Russia were the key topics of negotiations between the Presidents of Ukraine and the Republic of South Africa. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported this after the meeting.
This is the first bilateral visit by a President of Ukraine to South Africa since diplomatic relations were established between the two countries.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed his counterpart about the consequences of Russian strikes on Ukraine on Thursday night. Russia used over 200 aerial weapons: missiles, including ballistic ones, and attack drones. There are fatalities and more than 80 people injured.
The Head of State noted that due to the Russian attack, he decided to shorten his visit to South Africa. To show respect and to carry out all scheduled meetings, Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrii Sybiha will remain in the Republic of South Africa.
“We are grateful to you for your respect for Ukraine, for your support, and for sharing our belief that this war must be brought to an end as soon as possible. That was the main topic of our conversation today with President Ramaphosa,” Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Cyril Ramaphosa discussed the importance of uniting all global efforts and ensuring pressure on Russia in the interest of peace. Special attention was given to potential opportunities within the G20, which South Africa is chairing this year.
“The Republic of South Africa is willing and continues to support all efforts, including multilateral ones, to achieve a just, durable, and comprehensive peace,” the South African President stated.
The President of Ukraine emphasized the urgent issues of releasing prisoners and returning children. During the meeting, he handed over a list of 400 Ukrainian children abducted by Russia.
The leaders also discussed matters of the bilateral agenda. Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine has capacities in energy security, agriculture, fertilizer production, defense manufacturing, and technologies. Ukraine also proposed creating a joint mineral hub with South Africa for the production and transportation of fertilizers.
“We can also work together to significantly increase electricity generation in your country – from nuclear to renewable sources. Affordable and cheap energy always helps economic growth. I have instructed our officials to thoroughly explore every potential joint project,” the President said.
Cyril Ramaphosa noted that the Republic of South Africa is interested in developing all possible areas of cooperation with Ukraine.
“We recognize the efforts Ukraine, and in particular President Zelenskyy, is making to expand relations with African countries. We commend the grain and food supply initiatives, as well as the proposal to create a grain hub in Mombasa, Kenya,” the South African President concluded.
