Russian President Vladimir Putin met today with his South African counterpart Cyril Ramaphosa on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in the Russian city of Kazan.
The key statements made by Putin at the bilateral meeting:
Russia expects the South African foreign minister in Sochi on November 9-10 for the first ministerial conference of the "Russia-Africa" partnership forum;
Relations between Russia and South Africa are based on the principles of partnership and equality;
Trade between Russia and South Africa has grown by 3% in 8 months, the countries have something to work on;
Russia and South Africa on the world stage advocate for the creation of a fair world order;
Russia attaches great importance to strengthening relations with countries of the African continent.
The key statements made by Ramaphosa at the bilateral meeting:
South Africa considers Russia a valued ally and a friend; this friendship has been lasting for a long time;
The BRICS Summit will address issues of peace, security, and trade;
Ramaphosa will discuss with Vladimir Putin current situation in South Africa, the South African leader is glad to get support from Russia;
Ramaphosa is glad to come to Kazan, he also congratulated Putin on the organization of BRICS Summit.
BRICS is an intergovernmental organization established in 2006. Russia's 2024 presidency of BRICS began with the joining of new members. Adding to Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, it now includes Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, UAE and Saudi Arabia; the latter has not formalized membership but participates in BRICS meetings.