South Africa: President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomed the Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on April 24, 2025 where he briefed media on the occasion of his official visit in Union Building, Tshwane.
Ramaphosa said that it is his distinct honour to recieve Zelenskyy and his delegation at the Union Buildings, as this official visit reflected the shared commitment to enhance the bilateral relations for the mutual benefit of the people.
It was a first historic visit of the Head of State of Ukraine’s to South Africa in the last 33 years, since they established formal diplomatic relations. SA president greatly appreciated the support received from Ukraine during the liberation struggle. They recalled that a number of exiled South Africans received training and education in Ukraine.
He further explained that he got an opportunity in June 2023 to meet President Zelenskyy in Kyiv as part of the African Peace Initiative. Since then, they have maintained the ongoing dialogue between the countries and the diplomats.
SA President cleared that they have just concluded the successful talks during which they exchanged views on how to consolidate and deepen the bilateral relations between the two countries. The federation noted a growing interest in expanding relations in peace diplomacy, post-conflict reconstruction and development with empowered women.
Furthermore, they also discussed the opportunities for cooperation in areas such as agriculture, trade, education, infrastructure and social exchange. They are pleased that the Ministers have held discussions on strengthening trade and investment opportunities in the respective countries, majorly in agriculture and agri-business.
Significant strides were acknowledged, that were taken by the Ukraine, particularly in the efforts of President Zelenskyy, to expand relations with the African continent. They noted the provision of grain in areas of food stress in west and east Africa, also the expansion of agricultural cooperation and the opening of a grain hub at the Port of Mombasa in Kenya.
These are the direct outcomes received from the discussions that were held when they visited Kyiv in June 2023 as a part of the African Peace Initiative. The engagement was an opportunity to discuss the shared interest in advancing peace, security, stability and sustainable development on the continent, in Ukraine and across the world.
They reinforced the common commitment to respect the rule of law in international relations, multilateralism, the central role of the United Nations in global governance and the maintenance of global peace and security.
Moreover, South Africa is deeply concerned about the continued conflict in Ukraine, that led the loss of civilian lives, damage to critical infrastructure and deteriorating humanitarian situation. The nation believes that the only path to peace is through diplomacy, inclusive dialogue and a commitment to the principles of the United Nations Charter.
This included the principle that all member states shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means. From the experience of their own journey, from apartheid to democracy, as they value the importance of engaging all parties to conflicts to achieve peaceful, just and enduring solutions.
There is just one thing that history has taught them, it is diplomacy and dialogue which are more powerful than any weapon. South Africa’s participation in the African Peace Initiative and its subsequent participation in the Ukraine Peace Formula is completely understandable.
President Cyril Ramaphosa added that he had an opportunity to speak to the President Donald Trump and discuss the peace process in Ukraine. They both agreed that the war should be brought to an end as soon as possible to prevent further death and destruction.
Trump and Ramaphosa also agreed to meet soon to address the relations between South Africa and the United States. They both spoke about the need to foster good relations between the two countries.
South Africa stands ready to support all credible and inclusive multilateral efforts aimed at achieving a just, sustainable and comprehensive peace.
Considering the meeting, President Zelenskyy and Ramaphosa re-affirmed the bonds of friendship and solidarity that existed between the two countries. They looked forward to consistent engagement and cooperation that benefits the people and the countries.