Russian President Vladimir Putin and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa held a phone conversation on Monday, focusing on the ongoing war in Ukraine and deepening cooperation between their countries, according to a statement from the Kremlin.
During the call, both leaders explored opportunities to strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in trade, economic collaboration, and investment.
The Kremlin noted that President Putin reiterated Russia’s stance on the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing the need to address what Moscow sees as the root causes of the war and to safeguard Russia’s national security interests.
The discussion also touched on South Africa’s interest in supporting peaceful solutions to the crisis in Ukraine. In this context, Putin presented Russia’s “principled position” on resolving the conflict.
In addition, President Putin extended congratulations to Ramaphosa and the people of South Africa ahead of Freedom Day, which will be celebrated on April 27.
The two presidents agreed to maintain dialogue through various diplomatic channels going forward.