Ramaphosa reiterates calls for lifting of sanctions on Cuba and Zimbabwe
President Cyril Ramaphosa addressed the United Nations General Assembly this week, saying an embargo on the countries ‘caused untold damage’.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa addresses the 78th United Nations General Assembly at UN headquarters in New York City on September 19, 2023. Picture: Ed JONES / AFP
JOHANNESBURG - President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated calls for the lifting of sanctions on Cuba and Zimbabwe.
The president addressed the United Nations General Assembly on Monday.
His speech was centred around world peace efforts, and the role of the international community.
Ramaphosa highlighted the social and economic effects of the 60-year embargo on Cuba by the United States, “an embargo that has caused untold damage to the country’s economy and the people of Cuba”.
He also highlighted the plight of Zimbabweans and South Africans.
“The sanctions that are also being applied against South Africa's neighbour, Zimbabwe, should also be lifted, as they are imposing untold suffering on ordinary Zimbabweans, but also have a collateral negative impact on neighbouring countries such as my own country, South Africa.”
POISED FOR SUSTAINABILITY
Ramaphosa also told the international community that South Africa was positioning itself to be a leader in renewable energy, green energy, and sustainable industrialisation.
While showcasing South Africa’s energy transition ambitions, he also called for the promotion of transitions that are just and inclusive.
“Due to regulatory changes and the surge of investments, South Africa has confirmed pipeline renewable energy projects that are expected to produce in excess of 10GW of electricity. South Africa has established a just transition framework to ensure that climate actions adhere to the principles of procedural, restorative, and distributive justice.”