Ramaphosa to champion multilateralism, protection of human rights at UN General Assembly

President Cyril Ramaphosa said that geopolitical tensions and ongoing armed conflicts in parts of the world were among issues he planned to raise at the table with global leaders in New York on Monday.

Ramaphosa arrived in the US earlier for the 80th United Nations General Assembly, which officially kicks off on Tuesday.

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He’s expected to spend the day participating in the high-level two-state solution meeting convened and co-chaired by president of France, Emmanuel Macron, and minister of foreign affairs of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Faisal bin Al Saud. 

Talks include urgent calls for interventions in the ongoing genocide in Gaza, conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the war in Ukraine, and other geopolitical tensions.

Speaking on his arrival in New York, Ramaphosa recommitted to championing robust multilateralism, peaceful resolution of conflicts and the unwavering protection of human rights.

"It's wonderful to see so many countries surging forward to recognise the state of Palestine, so we’ll be participating in that, and holding bilateral talks with a number of other countries, as well as meeting with other business people. So, the highlights are many, including the business forum and the businesses interested in investing in South Africa. That too is very important."