The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 28th St Petersburg International Economic Forum..
“Trust and mutual respect have always been key characteristics of the bilateral relations between Russia and South Africa. We are interested in expanding our mutually beneficial cooperation, especially in the economy and investment,” Federation Council Speaker Valentina Matvienko said during her meeting with Vice President of the Republic of South Africa Paul Mashatile. The conversation took place on the sidelines of the 28th St Petersburg International Economic Forum.
Relations with African nations, including South Africa, are among Russia’s top foreign policy priorities, the Federation Council Speaker emphasised.
Ms Matvienko warmly welcomed the active participation of the South African delegation in international events hosted in Russia, as well as the high level of bilateral engagements.
“We have always regarded South Africa as a reliable partner. Our partnership was forged in the joint struggle against apartheid. We highly value the trusting political dialogue that exists between our two countries. The regular contacts between our presidents proves our shared commitment to developing a strategic partnership,” she emphasised, noting the busy working programme of the South African delegation at SPIEF.
As part of the working visit to Russia, his first as Vice President of South Africa, Paul Mashatile has met with the President of Russia, the Prime Minister, and Russian business leaders.
According to Paul Mashatile, South Africa and Russia have maintained a productive and practical dialogue over the years, consistently exchanging experience, strengthening diplomatic ties, and expanding cooperation both bilaterally and multilaterally. “We intend to continue enhancing our cooperation in the economy, investment, and trade. It is essential to promote mutually beneficial relations for the future of our nations,” he stated.
The parties highlighted their aligned approaches to global development issues, which enable effective collaboration within the G20, which South Africa is chairing this year, as well as at the UN, BRICS and other international platforms.
The parties praised the high level of bilateral interparliamentary relations and emphasised the focus on their consistent expansion.