South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has restated the country’s commitment to maintaining neutrality amidst global power struggles. His address was broadcasted in anticipation of the upcoming meeting of the BRICS nations in Johannesburg on Tuesday. The acronym BRICS refers to the five major emerging economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa.
“We will not allow ourselves to be drawn into a competition between global powers,” emphasized President Ramaphosa. “Instead, our nation aims to collaborate with all countries to foster global peace and advancement.” Nonetheless, the President clarified that South Africa’s commitment to neutrality does not imply indifference towards matters of principle and national interest.
President Vladimir Putin of Russia, on the other hand, will be participating virtually in the summit after reaching an agreement with President Ramaphosa and refraining from attending in person. President Putin is currently the subject of an International Criminal Court arrest warrant due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Under South African law, the country is obligated to apprehend him should he enter South African territory.
The BRICS nations collectively represent approximately a quarter of the global economy, and interest in joining the group has surged throughout the current year.
BBC/Jide Johnson
