By Thebe Mabanga
President Cyril Ramaphosa used his welcome address during a state visit to Brazil to call for stronger economic ties between the two countries and an end to hostilities in the Middle East, where the United States and Israel have been carrying out attacks on Iran over the past ten days, with Tehran retaliating by striking neighbouring Gulf states.
Ramaphosa also paid tribute to victims of recent floods in Minas Gerais and reflected on South Africa marking the 30th anniversary of the adoption of its democratic Constitution.
“Our meeting takes place in the year that South Africa celebrates the 30th anniversary of the adoption of our democratic Constitution. On this occasion, we reflect on the progress our democratic nation has made and the sacrifices that made our freedom possible,” Ramaphosa said.
“We remain deeply grateful for the solidarity of the people of Brazil during our struggle for freedom. This support contributed meaningfully to the achievements we celebrate today.”
Addressing the conflict in the Middle East, Ramaphosa said the visit came at a time of escalating tensions.
“Our visit takes place against the backdrop of renewed conflict in the Middle East. We reiterate our call for the peaceful resolution of all disputes in line with the United Nations Charter. We condemn the loss of civilian life and the destruction of vital infrastructure,” he said.
“We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities.”
On economic relations, Ramaphosa said South Africa and Brazil share a commitment to equality, economic growth and the eradication of poverty.
“These shared values provide a strong basis for building practical, mutually beneficial programmes that advance our respective national development priorities,” he said.
Ramaphosa noted progress in several areas of cooperation, including the conclusion of a Memorandum of Intent on Agriculture and a Memorandum of Understanding on Basic Education.
“South Africa remains committed to strengthening cooperation in agriculture, agro-processing and value-added exports,” he said.
He also highlighted the two countries’ role as gateways to their respective regions, with Brazil providing South Africa access to South America and the Caribbean.
Ramaphosa said South African businesses are ready to take advantage of opportunities arising from reciprocal market access, including through the MERCOSUR–Southern African Customs Union Preferential Trade Agreement.
The visit will continue on Tuesday with an engagement that includes an address to a business forum.
Later this year the two countries will host their Joint National Commission.
Ramaphosa also extended a formal reciprocal invitation to Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva.
“The clarity and warmth of our discussions give me confidence that the momentum generated during this visit will yield concrete outcomes for both our nations and our respective regions,” Ramaphosa said.
South Africa and Brazil are founding members of BRICS, alongside China and India.
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