Zelenskyy and Ramaphosa Discuss Peace Efforts and Bilateral Cooperation
President Zelenskyy of Ukraine met with South Africa’s President Ramaphosa, discussing peace efforts, prisoner releases, and the return of abducted Ukrainian children. The dialogue emphasized unity for global pressure on Russia and explored potential bilateral cooperation in energy, agriculture, and technology. This marks the first visit by a Ukrainian president to South Africa since diplomatic ties began.
In a significant diplomatic meeting, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine engaged in discussions with President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa centered on pressing issues surrounding the ongoing war in Ukraine. Key topics included the need for a fair peace agreement, the liberation of prisoners, and the repatriation of Ukrainian children who have been forcibly taken by Russia. This meeting marks the first bilateral visit from a Ukrainian president to South Africa since their diplomatic relationship began.
After a devastating night of Russian airstrikes that reportedly involved over 200 aerial weapons, including ballistic missiles and drones, Zelenskyy highlighted the impact of these assaults, which resulted in casualties and injuries to over 80 individuals. To address this situation, he opted to reduce the duration of his visit while ensuring that Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Andrii Sybiha, remains in South Africa to attend scheduled meetings in his stead.
During the meeting, President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for South Africa’s support for Ukraine, emphasizing that both leaders shared a common goal—to bring an end to the conflict rapidly. The presidents also discussed the importance of strengthening global coalitions to apply pressure on Russia. They particularly examined the role of the G20, which South Africa is chairing this year, as a platform for these efforts.
Ramaphosa confirmed that South Africa is committed to supporting all initiatives aimed at achieving a just and sustainable peace in Ukraine. The discussion also turned to urgent humanitarian issues, where Zelenskyy presented a list detailing 400 Ukrainian children abducted by Russian forces.
Furthermore, both leaders explored avenues for bilateral cooperation across various sectors. The Ukrainian president asserted Ukraine’s capabilities within energy security, agriculture, and defense manufacturing. He proposed establishing a collaborative mineral hub for the production and transportation of fertilizers, as well as increasing energy generation in South Africa through nuclear and renewable sources, which he believes would boost economic growth.
In response, Ramaphosa affirmed South Africa’s strong interest in broadening its cooperation with Ukraine. He acknowledged the positive strides Ukraine is making in fostering relations with African nations, commending initiatives like grain supply programs and the proposed establishment of a grain hub in Kenya’s Mombasa.
The talks between Presidents Zelenskyy and Ramaphosa underscored a commitment to achieving a just peace and addressing humanitarian crises, including the plight of abducted children. The meeting reflected a mutual desire to enhance bilateral relations across diverse sectors, highlighting cooperation in energy, agriculture, and technology. This dialogue exemplifies the growing relationship between Ukraine and South Africa in the context of global geopolitical dynamics.
Original Source: www.president.gov.ua
