South Africa's Vice President, Paul Mashatile, will be on an official visit to Russia from June 16 to 21 to bolster diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations. This announcement was made by South Africa's Cabinet following its recent meeting.
The visit is seen as a strategic opportunity to further enhance economic partnerships, explore new avenues for cooperation, and promote regional peace initiatives.
The South African government has reiterated its commitment to a policy of non-interference and neutrality regarding the conflict in Ukraine. The statement emphasizes, "South Africa advocates for a peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict and continues to serve as a neutral mediator."
Back in late April, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited South Africa but announced the cancellation of part of his visit after a meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, intending to swiftly return to Kyiv. Subsequently, during a discussion with his South African counterpart, former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed surprise over Zelensky's visit to the African nation.
Reporter: Buynta Bembeeva
