Ramaphosa and Putin's phone call: A step towards peace and stronger relations

President Cyril Ramaphosa has held a telephonic discussion with President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation.

The Presidency said the discussion followed Putin's request to brief President Ramaphosa on the peace process with Ukraine and to engage on issues of mutual bilateral interest. 

“President Putin expressed his recognition and appreciation for South Africa's involvement in advancing a peace process between Russia and Ukraine,” said Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya.

Ramaphosa welcomed the briefing and expressed South Africa's full support to peace initiatives that will end the war and contribute to a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine. 

“The two leaders agreed to further their discussions on moving forward the strategic relationship between their two countries,” said Magwenya.

On Thursday, IOL reported that Ramaphosa and US President Donald Trump have spoken telephonically this week to further discuss bilateral trade matters.

According to Magwenya, the two leaders undertook to continue with further engagements, recognising the various trade negotiations the US is currently involved in.

“Respective trade negotiating teams will take forward more detailed discussions,” emphasising on the ongoing efforts to resolve trade issues.

The 30% tariffs imposed by the United States on South African imports were initially expected to come into effect last week.

However, Trade and Industry Minister Parks Tau confirmed that no final trade agreement has yet been reached between the two countries.

The tariff increase follows a formal letter from Trump to Ramaphosa, demanding that South Africa address long-standing trade imbalances and market access restrictions.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni provided an update on the framework deal following a briefing on the outcomes of Cabinet meetings on Thursday.

"In light of the 30% tariffs against South Africa that are expected to come into effect today, the 7th of August 2025, with the provision that the tariffs will be reviewed as soon as the two countries reach a deal," she said.

The minister added that the Cabinet affirmed the government's commitment to finding constructive and sustainable solutions through continued engagements with the US, including at a presidential level.

jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za

IOL News  

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