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President Ramaphosa reiterates SA’s stance in Russia-Ukraine conflict

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has reiterated that the South African government will not take sides in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

Russia invaded Ukraine more than three weeks ago. Millions of Ukrainians have fled their cities amidst Russian bombardments.

Ramaphosa says taking sides will exclude South Africa from playing the role of peacemaker.

He was replying to questions in the National Assembly.

The President spoke against the use of force but he also criticised western sanctions against Russia as unhelpful.

The President says the country has been approached by different players to use its experience as a peace negotiator.

UNSC weakness exposed

The President says the war between Russia and Ukraine has exposed the weaknesses of the current structure of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

He says the composition of the UNSC does not reflect the realities of the prevailing global landscape where Africa as a continent still does not have representation.

“The Security Council needs to be overhauled so that there is equitable representation… so that there is equitable representation and a more inclusive mechanism for resolving international disputes.”

SA finances

President Ramaphosa also told Parliament that the South African economy has proved resilient against the pandemic and is also weathering the effects of the conflict in Ukraine.

South Africa is a major exporter of industrial commodities like platinum group of metals. The prices of these metals have risen sharply after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Russia is also a major exporter of metals and has been slapped with stiff sanctions

President’s Q&A session:

 

 

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