BRICS Summit: Ramaphosa reiterates call for ceasefire in Gaza
President Cyril Ramaphosa said BRICS can become a more effective instrument to promote global peace and progress at all levels.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has used the annual BRICS Summit in Russia to once again, call for a ceasefire in Gaza. Picture: x.com/PresidencyZA
CAPE TOWN - President Cyril Ramaphosa has used the annual BRICS Summit in Russia to, once again, call for a ceasefire in Gaza.
Over 30 world leaders are gathered in Kazan for the annual meeting, including new members such as Iran, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates.
But Ramaphosa has upset his Government of National Unity (GNU) partner, the Democratic Alliance (DA) by referring to Russia as an ally and friend of South Africa.
Ramaphosa said as much as new BRICS members stand to enjoy the benefits of growth and development for their countries.
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The bloc also needs to focus on peace and security around the world.
"The continuing conflict in Gaza, the Middle East, resulting in the deaths of so many Palestinians is a matter of great concern. We must continue to insist that there must be a ceasefire with immediate effect and that there should also be recognition for the self-determination of the Palestinians," said Ramaphosa.
He said BRICS can become a more effective instrument to promote global peace and progress at all levels.
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But Ramaphosa has steered clear of raising Russia's war with Ukraine for which the summit's host, President Vladimir Putin, is wanted for war crimes by the International Criminal Court.
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has in the past spoken out against its BRICS partner for its invasion of Ukraine.
On Wednesday, the DA's leader - John Steenhuisen - said Ramaphosa did not speak on behalf of the whole GNU in referring to an authoritarian regime as an ally of South Africa.
DA PUSHES BACK
Steenhuisen took strong exception to Ramaphosa referring to Russia as an ally and friend of South Africa at a bilateral meeting with Putin.
Steenhuisen said it must be made clear that although a key partner in the GNU, his party does not share Ramaphosa’s views on the much-maligned leader.
As the leaders of new BRICS nations joined the founding core group in making their opening remarks at the summit in Kazan, back home Steenhuisen said South Africa’s renewal process would be hampered by South Africa openly supporting Russia.
“We cannot and will not agree that South Africa should consider an authoritarian regime, that is currently violating international law by waging an imperialist war of aggression against a sovereign state, as an ally,” said Steenhuisen.
No DA ministers are part of the delegation at the summit, which includes the ministers in The Presidency, international relations, defence, and trade and industry.
Steenhuisen said at a time when South Africa has the potential for increased economic growth, it should not make statements that could jeopardise its international relations.
Ramaphosa is reported to have made the remarks on Tuesday when meeting with Putin – also referencing Russia’s support for the anti-apartheid movement.
However, Steenhuisen said in future, positions expressed on behalf of the GNU should be properly debated first, to ensure maximum consensus and agreement among parties.