In a significant diplomatic development, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa held a telephone conversation with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of Ukraine on October 17, 2023. This high-level discussion, initiated by President Zelenskyy, highlighted the commitment of both leaders to foster closer cooperation and to actively seek a peaceful resolution to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict.
During their conversation, President Ramaphosa and President Zelenskyy explored various avenues to strengthen bilateral ties between South Africa and Ukraine. Their discussions underscored the importance of deepening diplomatic relationships and finding common ground on critical issues.
One of the key takeaways from the conversation was President Ramaphosa’s commitment to South Africa’s continued active engagement in the Africa Peace Initiative. South Africa’s participation in the Ukraine Peace Formula talks, which are conducted at the level of National Security Advisors, was also confirmed. This move reaffirms South Africa’s dedication to promoting peace and stability in the region.
Additionally, President Ramaphosa welcomed President Zelenskyy’s commitment to the revival of the Black Sea Grain Initiative. Both leaders expressed their determination to collaborate in efforts related to this important agricultural initiative, which is aimed at bolstering agricultural production and trade in the Black Sea region.
Furthermore, the two leaders took time to reflect on the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. President Ramaphosa expressed profound concern over the rapid escalation of the conflict, the widespread destruction, and the heavy toll on human lives. In this context, he reiterated South Africa’s strong call for an immediate cessation of hostilities, the safe return of hostages, and the swift establishment of humanitarian corridors to provide essential aid to those affected by the crisis.
The phone conversation between President Ramaphosa and President Zelenskyy demonstrates the commitment of both leaders to work together on international issues of mutual interest and global significance. It signals a renewed emphasis on peace, cooperation, and diplomacy in the face of complex global challenges. The outcomes of this conversation are likely to have far-reaching implications for the ongoing efforts to address the Russia-Ukraine conflict and to promote stability in the Middle East.
