Deputy President Paul Mashatile paid a courtesy visit to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday afternoon at the Constantine Palace in St. Petersburg.
This was during his three-day working visit to Russia this week, to strengthen bilateral relations between South Africa and the Russian Federation.
Speaking on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Republic of South Africa, Mashatile expressed gratitude to Putin and the Russian people for the role they played in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle and the socio-economic emancipation beyond the attainment of freedom and democracy.
“I have been tasked by the President to work tirelessly towards translation of the strong foundation of our strategic relations into higher trade and economic ties for the mutual benefit of our countries and our people.”
Mashatile says South Africa is also delighted to form part of the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, 2025, which reflects efforts to deepen trade and economic relations.
Mashatile also called on the support of Russia’s influence within the Eurasian Economic Union to reconsider South Africa from a developed to a developing country, as this has a significant impact on South African products and trade to the Eurasian market.
For his part, Putin affirmed that relations between Russia and South Africa are developing successfully on the basis of a comprehensive strategic partnership, equality, and mutual respect.
“We are in regular contact with President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa. Last year, we held detailed discussions with him in Kazan during the BRICS Summit, outlining steps for further cooperation. Mr Deputy President, I kindly ask you to convey my best wishes to President Ramaphosa.”
Putin highlighted that bilateral trade between SA and Russia saw an increase of approximately 2% in 2024, and he says this will continue to expand.
“Overall, strengthening ties with African nations remains one of our key priorities. As you know, following the second Russia-Africa Summit held here in St Petersburg in 2023, a substantial package of joint documents was adopted, including a policy declaration and an action plan through to 2026. Russia, South Africa, and other African partners are working collaboratively to implement these plans in practice.”
On his working visit, Mashatile also met russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin at the House of the Government of the Russian Federation in Moscow for a bilateral discussion to unlock areas of further cooperation in trade & investment, mineral & energy, agriculture, health and education.
Mashatile laid wreaths at the Mausoleum of anti-apartheid activists Moses Kotane and J.B. Marks at the Novodevichy Cemetery and UN Heritage Site in Moscow.
He also delivered a Public Lecture at St. Petersburg University under the theme – “South Africa’s Presidency in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment” with an audience from university leadership, students, faculty, diplomatic corps and the media.
