By Akani Nkuna
President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended Ireland for its “consistent principled position” in condemning the ongoing Israel war in Gaza, while advocating for international solidarity, saying such was key to ending the brutal conflict.
“There is growing global consensus that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and that the world must unite to end the conflict. We are encouraged by Ireland’s decision to recognise the Palestinian State as a vital part of a just and enduring peace. International solidarity is now more essential than ever,” said Ramaphosa.
Ireland formally recognised the State of Palestine in 2024. This year, myriad other countries – including Western ones such as France, Canada, Luxembourg, Belgium and the United Kingdom, did the same.
Ramaphosa was speaking during a luncheon hosted by his counterpart, Michael Higgins, in Ireland on Wednesday, when he made the comments.
The engagement forms part of a three-day state visit to Ireland and Belgium to consolidate a working relationship between the countries, particularly in science and innovation, higher education and skills development, and trade and investment.
According to the presidency, the visit also highlighted South Africa’s commitment to fostering strategic partnership with the European Union to create opportunities and enhance investment endeavours.
Bilateral trade increased by 12% between South Africa and Ireland in 2024, marked by increased exports to Ireland by 40.4%, whilst Ireland’s imports grew by 5%.
From the 9 to 10 October, Ramaphosa is expected to participate in the Global Gateway Forum (GGF) in Brussels, Belgium, following an invitation by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.
The GGF brings together heads of states, high-level representatives from governments, financial institutions, private sector and civil society to explore “innovative strategies” for scaling up European investments in partner countries.
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