South Africa Believes That Conflict in Ukraine Can Only Be Resolved Peacefully, FM Says
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Earlier, Chinese President Xi Jinping and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa urged all parties involved in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine to adhere to three principles: preventing the expansion of the conflict, de-escalating hostilities, and refraining from actions that could worsen the situation.
South Africa continues to believe that the conflict in Ukraine can only be resolved peacefully, South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said.
"We were cajoled into isolating Russia, even to the point of being accused of arming the Russians. As we speak now, the United States of America has changed its position, and it too believes that peace is the only viable solution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict," South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said.
Lamola observed the world's rapid changes, questioning, "What do those who accused us of aligning with Russia have to say for themselves now?" He asserted that "non-alignment does not equate to maligning other states," and emphasized that "for there to be peace, all parties must be invited to the table."
"Our response to these rapidly shifting sands should include collaboration and partnership and strategies to be less reliant on foreign assistance," Lamola stated.
The minister stressed that South Africa will continue to maintain its policy based on the principles of non-alignment in the future.
