Category: Republic of South Africa Government

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellencies, Leaders of the BRICS nations,
Your Excellencies, Leaders from across Africa,
Your Excellencies, Leaders of the Global South,
Representatives of global and regional institutions,
Honourable Ministers,
Excellencies,
Distinguished Guests,
 
Good Evening.

Thank you for accepting my invitation to join us tonight as we celebrate being together on a night which I trust you will find joyful and pleasant.

It is also a night when we thank you for joining the BRICS countries prior to tomorrow’s BRICS Outreach programme.

The BRICS group of countries incorporates the peoples, cultures and traditions of more than 3 billion people. 

We are united by our common vision and common goals.

Our diversity is our greatest strength, and tonight you will get to experience the rich tapestry of cultures, traditions and foods of South Africa.

Our head chef tonight is Wandile Mabaso, a world class chef who pairs classical French techniques with the wonderful flavours of South Africa.

He is joined by Xolani Mancotywa, a qualified beverage steward and chef who has reimagined traditional African cuisine and authentic African fine dining.

Your culinary journey of South Africa follows a cultural journey across our nation’s diverse cultures.

We hope that this evening you will experience South Africa’s story, one that interweaves our many different cultures, traditions and languages as the foundation of an inclusive nation.

It is a story that reflects the nature and purpose of BRICS, which values partnership and cooperation in a spirit of openness and solidarity.

As BRICS – and all of Your Excellencies who have joined us tonight from many countries – we will all tomorrow articulate how we will foster change in the world for the benefit of all the peoples of the world.

Tonight is a night when we have even more reason to celebrate as BRICS partners.

A few hours ago this afternoon, India made history as the first country to successfully land a lunar module on the south pole of the Moon.

We congratulate Prime Minister Modi, the government and people of India and the Indian Space Research Organisation on the success of the Chandraayan-3 mission.

Pushing forward the frontiers of scientific endeavour is integral to human progress.

In anticipation of this great achievement Prime Minister Modi proposed at our BRICS Summit this afternoon that BRICS should set up a Space Exploration Commission where, as BRICS countries, we can share knowledge and experiences.

The more we learn about this world we live in and beyond, the greater our capacity to improve it and to elevate the human condition.

In the words of the great poet and Nobel Laureate Rabindranath Tagore: “We are in a palace which has no end, but which we have reached. By exploring it and extending our relationship with it, we are ever making it more and more our own.”

This and many other achievements enable us to move forward to prosperity, to progress and to peace.

Once again welcome and please do enjoy this celebration of unity, diversity and shared progress.

I thank you.

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency, First Lady of the Republic of South Africa, Dr. Tshepo Motsepe;
Your Excellencies First Ladies and Spouses of Heads of State present; 
Esteemed guests;
Good afternoon,

It is a wonderful honour for me to address you at this 15th BRICS Summit, and to extend a warm South African welcome to all of you.

South Africa of course, and the African continent more broadly, is the Cradle of Humanity. All of us here, no matter where we flew in from, are the scatterings of Africa. So welcome home! 

Before anything else, I want to thank everyone responsible for this amazing gathering. They worked tirelessly and paid close attention to detail, making this luncheon a huge success. 

Most importantly, let me thank our beautiful and gracious host, the First Lady of our Republic and the Mother of our Nation, Dr Tshepo Motsepe. 

Mme Motsepe is what we in South Africa often refer to as “isikhukukazi”. The term, literally translated, means a “mother hen”. But its true meaning is much richer than the analogy suggests. 

Isikhukukazi is a nurturer and a fierce protector. She is a teacher, a comforter, a leader and the most respected figure of authority. She dishes out love and discipline in equal measure, often at the very same time! 

She offers wise counsel to all, and in everything she does always seeks to uphold the interests of the next generation. 

These values define the long career of our hostess: she has been for decades nothing if not a servant of the next generation. Which is exactly what the Early Care Foundation which she established does. It invests in the health, educational, and developmental needs of the next generation.

The work of the foundation and many others like it is shifting the trajectory of early childhood education and care, positively changing the life story and chances of millions of children. 

Most of the organisations that do this labour of love are founded and led by women. It is my honour to pay tribute to Dr Motsepe and to all of them this month, which in South Africa is Women’s Month. 

On August 9 we celebrated Women’s Day, a national holiday to honours the work and sacrifices of the thousands of women who stood up and fought with everything they had, to liberate their country from colonialism and apartheid. On August 9, 1956, over 20 000 women from all walks of life marched on the Union Buildings in Pretoria to deliver an unequivocal message: that the women of our country would not sheepishly accept living under the yoke of racist oppression, apartheid, and patriarchy. 

I welcome and thank you in their name and in their spirit. Malibongwe!! 

Mme Motsepe is a direct descendant of those women. She carries their mantle and keeps their flame burning. 

South Africa is a nation of many unique attractions, and I hope that you may have the time to enjoy them during your stay, or if not you can soon come back for a longer and more relaxed visit. 

If you do, I would love for you to go to two places in particular, because of their unique significance: the first is the Women’s Living Heritage Monument in Pretoria, which pays tribute to the women of 1956. 

The second is the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site just outside of Johannesburg. To look back at the prehistoric origins of us all is to be reminded of the oneness of the human race. We are all children of the same ancient mother, and she is African. This is a particularly important fact to remember when the world is so rent apart by division, prejudice, and inequality.

Thank you for honouring us with your presence and your ideas. We value your life experiences, your insights, your activism and your commitment to the dream and the very real possibility of a better world, a more humane world. 

I thank you.

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency President Lula Da Silva,
Your Excellency President Vladimir Putin
Your Excellency Prime Minister Narendra Modi,
Your Excellency President Xi Jinping,
Your Excellency Dilma Rousseff, President of the New Development Bank,
Chair of the BRICS Business Council, Ms Busi Mabuza,
Chair of the BRICS Women’s Business Alliance, Ms Lebogang Zulu,
Honourable Ministers,
Members of the diplomatic corps,
Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Welcome to South Africa and to the 15th BRICS Summit.

The BRICS partnership straddles four continents and five countries that are home to almost three and a half billion people. 

Over the past decades the bloc has been a major driver of global growth, trade and investment.

BRICS stands for solidarity and for progress. 

BRICS stands for inclusivity and a more just, equitable world order. 

BRICS stands for sustainable development.

We are an inclusive formation of developing and emerging economies that are working together to benefit from our rich histories, cultures and systems to advance common prosperity.

We do so because we know that poverty, inequality and underdevelopment are the biggest challenges facing humankind.

We are therefore determined that the BRICS partnership must be harnessed to drive an inclusive global economic recovery.

Advancing the African agenda is a strategic priority for South Africa during its Chairship of BRICS.

It is for this reason that we have chosen as the theme of this year’s Summit: “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism.” 

We welcome the ongoing engagement of BRICS countries with Africa in the spirit of partnership and mutual respect.

Our objectives are reciprocal trade and investment. We want the goods, products and services from Africa to compete on an equal footing in the global economy.

The African Continental Free Trade Area, once fully operational, will unlock the benefits of the continental market and generate mutually beneficial opportunities for both African and BRICS countries.

As nations of the world confront the effects of climate change, we must ensure that the transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient future is just, fair and takes into account differing national circumstances.

In line with this objective, BRICS nations need to advance the interests of the Global South and call for industrialised countries to honour their commitments to support climate actions by developing economy countries.

Peace and stability are preconditions for a better, more equitable world.

We are deeply concerned about conflicts across the world that continue to cause great suffering and hardship.

As South Africa, our position remains that diplomacy, dialogue, negotiation and adherence to the principles of the United Nations Charter are necessary for the peaceful and just resolution of conflicts.

We are concerned that global financial and payments systems are increasingly being used as instruments of geopolitical contestation.

Global economic recovery relies on predictable global payment systems and the smooth operation of banking, supply chains, trade, tourism and financial flows.

We will continue discussions on practical measures to facilitate trade and investment flows through the increased use of local currencies.

The world is changing. 

New economic, political, social and technological realities call for greater cooperation between nations.

These realities call for a fundamental reform of the institutions of global governance so that they may be more representative and better able to respond to the challenges that confront humanity.

While firmly committed to advance the interests of the Global South, BRICS stands ready to collaborate with all countries that aspire to create a more inclusive international order.

We are confident that this 15th BRICS Summit will advance the cause of common prosperity and progress.

We are confident that this 15th BRICS Summit will enrich and inspire our work towards the achievement of a more humane global community.

I thank you.

Source: President of South Africa –

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva,
Your Excellency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi,
Ministers and Officials,
Business Leaders,
Friends,
 
It is a great honour to participate in this Leaders’ Session of the BRICS Business Forum.
 
I thank you all for your attendance and participation.
 
The BRICS group of countries exists not only to strengthen government-to-government relations, but also to forge stronger ties between the peoples of our five nations. It is for this reason that several bodies have been established to enable cooperation across society. 
 
The BRICS Business Council is a vital and vibrant platform for strengthening economic ties between our respective countries and in forging common perspectives on inclusive economic growth and development.
 
The changes that have taken place in BRICS economies over the past decade have done much to transform the shape of the global economy. 
 
Together, the BRICS countries make up a quarter of the global economy, they account for a fifth of global trade and are home to more than 40 per cent of the world’s population.
 
As we celebrate the 15th anniversary of BRICS, trade between BRICS countries totaled some $162 billion last year. 
 
Foreign investment has played an important role in the growth of BRICS economies.
 
Total annual foreign direct investment into BRICS countries is four times greater than it was 20 years ago. 
 
However, the new wave of protectionism and the subsequent impact of unilateral measures that are incompatible with WTO rules undermine global economic growth and development. 
 
We therefore need to reaffirm our position that economic growth must be underpinned by transparency and inclusiveness. It must be compatible with a multilateral trading system that supports a developmental agenda.
 
We require a fundamental reform of the global financial institutions so that they can be more agile and responsive to the challenges facing developing economies.
 
In this respect, the New Development Bank, established by BRICS countries in 2015, is leading the way. Since its formation it has demonstrated its ability to mobilise resources for infrastructure and sustainable development in emerging economies without conditionalities.
 
BRICS economies have emerged as powerful engines of global growth.
 
Yet the rapid economic, technological and social changes underway create new risks for employment, equality and poverty in many BRICS countries. 
 
We therefore call on the business community to join hands with us to identify solutions to these and other challenges affecting our respective economies.
 
From a South African perspective, there is massive untapped potential for investment in our country and on the African continent.
 
In recognition of this potential, the theme for this 15th BRICS Summit is:
‘BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development, and Inclusive Multilateralism’.
 
Africa is a continent of great opportunity in the industrialisation process in a variety of sectors. 
 
Africa is a continent rich in the critical minerals that will drive business success in the 21st Century. 
 
The continent has resources of lithium, vanadium, cobalt, platinum, palladium, nickel, copper, rare earth minerals, rhodium and many others.
 
African countries have made it clear that the investors of choice are those who will process the resources here, close to source.
 
We are developing stronger regional value-chains that will connect a number of African countries, providing investors with diversity, strength and resilience. 
 
The African Continental Free Trade Area creates a single market that is expected to grow to 1.7 billion people and nearly $7 trillion in consumer and business spending by 2030.
 
The success of the African Continental Free Trade Area will require a massive investment in infrastructure. We need to mobilise the substantial financing needed to build the roads, ports, rail, energy and telecommunications networks that will enable industrialisation and trade.
 
Growth in African economies will be driven in the main by small and medium enterprises. This requires focused and effective support to these businesses. It is important that specific financing be directed to women-owned businesses so that they can harness the benefits of the continental free trade area.
 
Africa has a young, digitally-connected and urbanising population, which provides a stable workforce for companies in future. The investment in skills development is growing.
 
These factors all position Africa as the next frontier of productivity and growth.
 
BRICS countries have an opportunity to contribute to and participate in Africa’s growth story. This can be achieved through greater cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, agriculture, manufacturing, new energy and the digital economy.
 
South Africa has an important position in this growing African market, facilitated by the African Continental Free Trade Area and other free trade agreements. 
 
South Africa’s industrial strength, our mineral endowments and our large market opportunities provide a compelling value-proposition for companies wanting to establish their businesses here. 
 
South Africa has significant industrial capacity, with Africa’s most advanced industrial innovation and fabrication base. 
 
Firms that have invested here recognise that South Africa has deep local capital markets and strong financial systems. We have a diverse and sophisticated economy.
 
South Africa possesses world-class infrastructure, skills, abundant natural resources, industrial clusters and a host of incentives to support investment. 
 
Many investment and partnership opportunities exist in renewable energy, infrastructure, aquaculture, ICT, automotives, pharmaceuticals and advanced manufacturing, among others. 
 
It is clear from the report that we have received that this has been a most productive Business Forum.
 
I commend the BRICS Business Council, the respective Ministers and officials and all the business leaders that continue to contribute to this valuable work.
 
I sincerely hope that your participation in this BRICS Business Forum will yield the productive outcomes required for us to catapult BRICS economies towards more equitable and accelerated growth.
 
I thank you.

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency President Xi Jinping,
Honourable Ministers,
Ambassadors from China and South Africa,
Members of delegations,
Members of the media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

South Africa is honoured to receive President Xi Jinping on his fourth State Visit to South Africa.

This visit coincides with 25 years of diplomatic relations between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China.

We are grateful for the support and friendship that China has provided as we have worked to rebuild and transform our country after the devastation of apartheid.

We recall with gratitude the solidarity demonstrated by China during the COVID-19 pandemic when it supplied much-needed equipment, materials and vaccines to African countries. 

During this State Visit, South Africa and China have reaffirmed political support for each other’s core interests. 

We also agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, infrastructure development, energy, tourism, education and training, and digital technologies.

China is South Africa’s largest trading partner and South Africa is China’s biggest trading partner in Africa.

We have discussed the need to narrow the trade deficit between South Africa and China, and that one of the ways to do this is by ensuring greater market access for value-added South African export goods into the Chinese market.

On multilateral cooperation, President Xi and I have agreed to consult closely on issues of common concern, including in the context of BRICS, the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the G77 plus China, and the G20.

We have discussed areas of synergy in line with the call by South Africa and other African countries for the reform of institutions of global governance, notably the United Nations Security Council. 

We agree that the interests of the Global South must be fairly represented on all multilateral fora. 

President Xi and I discussed the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine and its significant impact on developing economies in Africa and elsewhere. 

We both agreed on the importance of dialogue and negotiation between the two sides. As South Africa, we are encouraged that President Xi has welcomed the peace mission to Russia and Ukraine initiated by African leaders.

President Xi and I look forward to the upcoming BRICS Summit, and have agreed that BRICS must play an expanded role in global affairs. 

President Xi and I will be co-chairing a China-Africa Leaders’ Roundtable on the sidelines of this State Visit.

The purpose of this roundtable is to further deepen cooperation between China and the African continent on the development, industrialisation and integration of African economies.

We are gratified that the friendship between the People’s Republic of China and South Africa has endured. 

The friendship that exists between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China is living proof of what is set out in the Freedom Charter, which is the forerunner of the South African Constitution, which declared that: “There shall be Peace and Friendship.”

We look forward to a new era of even stronger ties, underpinned by our commitment to achieving common prosperity for our respective peoples and the Global South in general.

I thank you.

Source: President of South Africa –

Your Excellency Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China,
Honourable Ministers and Deputy Ministers from China and South Africa,
Ambassador of China and South Africa,
Senior officials,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to officially welcome you, President Xi, on your fourth State Visit to South Africa.

This visit takes place in the year that we celebrate 25 years of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and South Africa.

Our relations over the last quarter of a century are founded on South Africa’s commitment to the One China Policy.

The relationship between the people of South Africa and China stretches back many decades. We recall with deep gratitude the support of the Chinese people for our struggle for freedom and democracy.

China has been a valued friend and developmental partner of South Africa throughout the course of rebuilding our country from the ruins of apartheid.

I wish to make special mention of China’s support during the COVID-19 pandemic through the provision of personal protective equipment, vaccines and other essential items to South Africa and other African countries. This support extended to the cancellation of the debt of a number of Africa countries.

We thank you, President Xi, for these acts of generosity and solidarity.

South Africa deeply appreciates China’s support in addressing our current energy challenges. This includes the donation of emergency power equipment worth R167 million and availing a grant of approximately R500 million as development assistance.

Chinese companies, encouraged by your government, responded with enthusiasm to our investment drive, which has raised more than R1.5 trillion in investment commitments over the last five years.

Building on this firm foundation, we should continue to provide each other with mutual support.

Over the years, the relationship between South Africa and China has been steadily strengthened and has transformed into a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership that is underpinned by 10-Year Strategic Programmes of Cooperation. 

China and South Africa share common goals of economic growth, development and common prosperity for our respective countries and for all countries of the Global South. It is this common outlook that has enabled us to deepen our cooperation on several fronts.

South Africa maintains high-level cooperation with China in several areas. These include, but are not limited to, international politics, trade, investment, infrastructure development, science, innovation and education. 

Energy cooperation with China is a recent development that we look to deepen, particularly in line with our respective commitments to low-carbon, climate resilient development.

This year has seen the resumption of in-person engagements at the various levels of our structured bilateral mechanisms. Examples of this are the Strategic Dialogue that took place in Beijing in May and the High-Level People-to-People Exchange Mechanism in Cape Town in February. The Binational Commission is also scheduled to take place in November this year. 

China is South Africa’s largest global trading partner. South Africa is also China’s biggest trading partner in Africa and an important destination for Chinese investment in Africa. 

Our bilateral trade has grown exponentially, from less than R1 billion in 1998 to over R614 billion in 2022. As South Africa, we would like to see the significant trade deficit narrowed and this visit is an opportunity for us to look at ways to do so.

Development cooperation between China and South Africa is strong. 

As South Africa, we are inspired by China’s common prosperity strategy, and are encouraged that this includes improving the welfare and well-being of all countries of the Global South.

Welcome the progress that has been made regarding various FOCAC-related infrastructural development projects in South Africa, such as small harbours development and the flagship uMzimvubu Water Development project.

We are looking forward to hosting the 15th BRICS Summit, having taken over from China as Chair in 2022. We thank China for its support in convening this Summit.

We share your view, President Xi, that BRICS has a vitally important role to play in the reform of global governance and in the promotion of multilateralism and cooperation throughout the world.

South Africa and China have similar views on the expansion of BRICS membership and we look forward to the discussions we will have on this matter during the BRICS Leaders’ Retreat.

We look forward to co-chairing the Africa-China Leaders’ Roundtable alongside you. 

This is a valuable opportunity to take forward the growing relationship between China and the continent of Africa founded on respect, mutual-benefit and good faith. We agree that this is an opportunity to expand cooperation in areas such as agriculture, manufacturing, new energy and the digital economy.

South Africa and China have expressed similar positions in support of the peaceful resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict through diplomacy, inclusive political dialogue and negotiations.

As South Africa we look forward to another 25 years of friendship and cooperation with China, and well beyond. 

At a time when the world faces many geopolitical, social, economic, environmental and other challenges, it is up to us to deepen our cooperation and turn challenge into opportunity as we build a shared future.

As friends and BRICS partners, we stand together in our shared quest for a better, more egalitarian world that frees the potential of all peoples.

I invite you now, President Xi, to make your opening statement.

I thank you.

Source: President of South Africa –

Programme Directors, Mr. Weza Matome and Ms. Coretta Mohale;
The ANC Treasury General Dr. Gwen Ramokgopa, the officials from the ruling party and NEC Members here present
The Premier of Gauteng, Mr. Panyaza Lesufi
Our Minister, Dr. Naledi Pandor, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation; Mrs. Thembi Nkadimeng, Minister of Corporate Government and Traditional Affairs, Ministers and Deputy Ministers here present;
His Excellency, Mr. Olusegun Obasanjo, former President of Nigeria;
Ms. Busi Mabuza, Chairperson of the South Africa Chapter of the BRICS Business Council, Dr. Stavros Nicolaou, and members of the BRICS Business Council;
Business leaders, CEOs, members of boards, and associations;
The Deputy Chairperson of the Pan African Parliament, Hon. Dr Ashebiri Gayo;
Ladies and gentlemen;
Distinguished guests,

Good evening, Dumelang, Sanibonani, Riperile, Ndi Madekwana!

I am honoured to welcome you to South Africa ahead of the eagerly awaited 15th BRICS Summit, the first in-person gathering in four years after the COVID-19 pandemic.

We have gathered here to honour the foresight and courage of the BRICS nations. With their vast potential and diverse economies, these nations have joined forces to forge new frontiers and create new opportunities for growth and development. In doing so, these nations have demonstrated that the promotion of a shared vision provides tangible platforms for economic growth. 

In today’s interconnected world, collaboration and partnership are crucial for sustainable growth, addressing global challenges, promoting economic stability, and advancing prosperity.

As we stand here tonight, we can reflect on our tremendous progress as a collective. For example, more and more countries worldwide are coming around to the idea of BRICS, as several have indicated an interest in joining or at least participating in BRICS-related forums.

Today, the world takes notice of the bloc because it is at the forefront of the global discourse on currency relations, global payment systems, new trade, and other important, consequential topics. The bloc has established a successful and growing Development Financial Institution (DFI), the New Development Bank (NDB).

We have become major players in the global economy, contributing significantly to international trade, investment, and innovation. Currently, the BRICS bloc represents 23% of the world’s GDP and 42% of the world’s population. 

Our countries have embraced economic reforms, improved infrastructure, and fostered entrepreneurship, creating an enabling environment for business and investment.

However, we must acknowledge that challenges remain.

Despite our progress, geopolitical tensions, protectionism, and other global uncertainties remain an ever-present menace. We must remain committed to open, equitable, and inclusive trade and resist the temptation to turn inward and isolate ourselves from the rest of the world.

The BRICS nations can shape the future; we can advance sustainable development, champion innovation, and create a more equitable global community. However, we must also address the urgent requirements of our population.

Our nations are home to millions of citizens who should have access to quality education, healthcare, and social mobility opportunities. We must ensure that economic expansion is accompanied by inclusive development that leaves no one behind.

As esteemed leaders and representatives of BRICS businesses, we are presented with a remarkable opportunity to enhance the bonds between our organisations, foster deeper partnerships, and venture into uncharted realms of collaboration.

Yesterday, President Ramaphosa explained in detail why South Africa is a member of BRICS, including its expansion. It is, therefore, imperative that, as a business, you also consider the effects of expansion on your operations.

The expanded BRICS has the potential to attract substantial international investment. It will allow the BRICS nations to increase their global influence and trade connections with various “powerful” emerging market economies.

It is crucial to capitalise on the opportunities presented by countries expressing interest in joining our alliance and extend invitations to foster a mutually advantageous economic alliance that promotes fairness and inclusivity within our market.

Ladies and gentlemen,

While some large corporations have expanded their presence and investments within the BRICS countries, there are concerns that smaller businesses and entrepreneurs have faced entry barriers and difficulties accessing new markets within the bloc.

This has led to uneven economic development among the member nations. We must continue pushing for equitable representation in international decision-making and supporting the post-Covid-19 global economic recovery.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated, “BRICS must provide a united and clear voice in shaping a peaceful, balanced, and stable world”. We need to capitalise on each other’s strengths, which include knowledge, abilities, and resources.

In this regard, we must collaborate to develop the future skills required by BRICS nations, beginning with substantial investment by enterprises in skill development programmes.

The future skill will aid in resolving challenges about energy, water, and health. Our nation is committed to promoting the advancement of skills necessary for the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and other future-oriented competencies that will contribute to economic growth.

Ladies and gentlemen, our country presents a wide range of opportunities. It remains an attractive destination for investors looking to establish a presence to access the broader African market.

As a signatory to the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and a member of BRICS, it would be beneficial to strengthen this partnership further to explore and capitalise on the potential opportunities for enhanced trade, investment, and infrastructure development.

We must consider making strategic investments in infrastructure, as it can significantly contribute to the progress and prosperity of our continent and the global community. It plays a crucial role in promoting human development and addressing poverty-related challenges.

Through the current state of the AfCFTA agreement, we have successfully established the largest free trade area globally, as measured by the number of participating countries.

The agreement establishes a connection among 1.3 billion individuals spanning 55 countries, collectively representing a gross domestic product (GDP) valued at US$3.4 trillion. This initiative could alleviate extreme poverty for 30 million individuals and reduce moderate poverty for 68 million Africans.

The establishment of the expansive AfCFTA regional market presents a significant opportunity for African nations and investors to enhance export diversification, expedite economic growth, and attract foreign direct investment.

Africa offers numerous opportunities for growth and development. Its abundant natural resources, including agriculture and extraction, offer significant roles in national, regional, and global value chains. By transforming challenges into opportunities, Africa can achieve greatness and transform its challenges into opportunities.

At least half of the world’s diamond riches are also in Africa. Cobalt, nickel, lithium, manganese, uranium, and rare earth metals are essential for clean energy and the future and are primarily found in Africa.

You, as a business, have the ability to build a brighter future not only for Africa but also for the BRICS community as a whole.

However, as we gather here today, let us also remember the significance of fostering fair and balanced growth. The importance of our commitment to inclusive development cannot be stressed enough.

It is important to prioritise the equitable distribution of the benefits of our economic cooperation, with a focus on promoting job creation, empowering women, and uplifting communities.

In this endeavour, it is important to consider prioritising sustainable practices that aim to protect our environment and ensure the preservation of our natural resources for the benefit of future generations.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The BRICS Business Forum offers a valuable platform for the exchange of ideas, the exploration of investment opportunities, and the establishment of mutually beneficial partnerships.

I encourage you to engage in an open, constructive dialogue to create deeper cooperation and shared prosperity among the BRICS nations.

Let us unite as visionaries, innovators, and change-makers, committed to building a shared future that benefits our citizens and the global community.

Together, we can inspire, empower, and transform. Let us embark on this journey with determination, unity, and a shared vision of a prosperous and sustainable future.

I look forward to a successful 15th BRICS summit in our country over the next three days. 

Thank you, and enjoy the evening.

Source: President of South Africa –

ARRIVAL OF MEDIA AND ISSUING OF MEDIA ACCREDITATION 

Date: Tuesday, 22 August 2023
Time: 07h30 – 08h30
Venue: Government Avenue Entrance, Union Buildings  

WELCOME CEREMONY 

Date: Tuesday, 22 August 2023
Time: 10h30 
Venue: Nelson Mandela Amphitheater, Union Buildings 

SOUTH AFRICA – CHINA OFFICIAL TALKS 

Date: Tuesday, 22 August 2023
Time: 11h30 
Venue: Union Buildings 

OFFICIAL TALKS REPORT BACK

Date: Tuesday, 22 August 2023
Time: 12h30 
Venue: Courtyard, Union Buildings

Note: due to restricted space, there is an overflow area for media to follow the proceedings. Media accreditation for the Incoming China State Visit closed on 11 August 2023.  

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President – 082 835 6315

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Source: President of South Africa –

Fellow South Africans,
 
I would like to address you this evening on South Africa’s foreign policy in the light of our country being the host of the 15th BRICS Summit.
 
I would also like us to understand and appreciate the significance of this gathering for our country and the African continent.
 
A day ahead of the Summit, we will receive President Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China on his fourth state visit to South Africa.
 
This BRICS Summit and the State Visit by President President Xi Jinping, as well as the many bilateral engagements we will have with President Lula Da Silva of Brazil, Prime Minister Modi of India and many other heads of state on the sidelines of the Summit, have a bearing on our relationships with other countries and South Africa’s place in the world.
 
To understand why these relations are so important for our country and its people, we need to understand the principles and the values that shape our foreign policy and inform our international relations.
 
Before the dawn of democracy in 1994, the apartheid South African state was a pariah in the international community, condemned for committing a crime against humanity.
 
The foreign policy of apartheid South Africa was defined by coercion, destabilisation and military aggression.
 
Since the advent of democracy, South Africa’s foreign policy has been based on what our forebears inscribed in the Freedom Charter in 1955, when they declared that:
 
“South Africa shall be a fully independent state which respects the rights and the sovereignty of all nations; South Africa shall strive to maintain world peace and the settlement of all international disputes by negotiation – not war”.
 
This foreign policy approach is also a product of the efforts of leaders such as the late Oliver Tambo who mounted a vigorous worldwide campaign to secure global support for our just struggle against apartheid.
 
This put South Africa on the global map in relation to the interests of its people whilst the world condemned its apartheid rulers.
 
Indeed, our foreign policy is a matter that is vital to our progress as a nation.
 
Through stronger relations with other countries, manifested through investment and trade relations, we can grow our economy, create more opportunities for new businesses and create jobs.
 
South Africa’s foreign policy aims to promote our National Interest based on the protection and promotion of our national sovereignty and constitutional order.
 
It is also aimed at improving the well-being, safety and prosperity of our citizens, and the achievement of a better Africa and world.
 
The key pillars of our foreign policy include the promotion of human rights, peace and stability and the strengthening of trade and investment ties with other countries.
 
The foreign policy stance we have taken since the advent of democracy has positioned South Africa as a reliable and influential partner on our continent and in the world.
 
This has enabled our country to have friendly and valuable relations with countries around the world at political, diplomatic, trade, investment, sporting, social and many other levels.
 
It is these principles that guide our participation in BRICS.
 
Together, the members of BRICS – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa – make up a quarter of the global economy, they account for a fifth of global trade and are home to more than 40 per cent of the world’s population.
 
BRICS as a formation plays an important role in the world due to its economic power, market potential, political influence and development cooperation.
 
Yet the value of BRICS extends beyond its sheer size.
 
BRICS countries can collectively shape global dynamics, and acting together, have the potential to drive significant changes in the world economy and international relations.
 
Together, the BRICS members have used their collective voice to call for a world that is more equitable, balanced and governed by an inclusive system of global governance.
 
Being a BRICS member has created positive opportunities for South Africa.
 
It has enabled our country to have a strategic relationship with China.
 
Based on the strategic relationship between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China we will be signing several agreements during President Xi’s State visit.
 
We have steadily strengthened trade and investment ties with other BRICS countries alongside collaboration in areas like development, skills, technology, security and innovation.
 
South Africa has benefited from the New Development Bank, which was established by the BRICS countries in 2015.
 
Our country has been funded by the bank in several infrastructure projects to the value of R100 billion in sectors such as roads, water, transport and energy.
 
South Africa has always championed the interests of Africa within BRICS.
 
To further advance the African development agenda, more than 30 Heads of State and Government from across Africa will be attending the summit.
 
We want to build a partnership between BRICS and Africa so that our continent can unlock opportunities for increased trade, investment and infrastructure development.
 
There are great opportunities for other BRICS countries to participate in the African Continental Free Trade Area by locating production and services in various countries on the African continent, including our own, by partnering with local companies and entrepreneurs.
 
The 15th BRICS Summit will discuss a number of issues including the important issue of the possible expansion of the membership of BRICS.
 
More than 20 countries have formally applied to join BRICS and several others have expressed an interest in becoming part of the BRICS family.
 
South Africa supports the expansion of the membership of BRICS.
 
The value of BRICS extends beyond the interests of its current members.
 
For its efforts to be more effective, BRICS needs to build partnerships with other countries that share its aspirations and perspectives.
 
An expanded BRICS will represent a diverse group of nations with different political systems that share a common desire to have a more balanced global order.
 
In addition to the other African leaders in attendance, we will also be welcoming leaders from several countries of the Global South.
 
These include countries from the Caribbean and South America, from the Middle East, from West Asia, South Asia and South-East Asia.
 
This BRICS Summit is particularly important as it is being held as the world is confronted by fundamental challenges that are bound to determine the course of international events for years to come.
 
Our world has become increasingly complex and fractured as it is increasingly polarised into competing camps.
 
Multilateralism is being replaced by the actions of different power blocs, all of which we trade with, invest with, and whose technology we use.
 
It is for this reason that South Africa continues to advocate for an open and rules-based global governance, trade, financial and investment system. It must be a system that does not depend on the exercise of power or unilateralism, but by the advancement of the interests of the peoples of the world.
 
It is in this rules base system that we seek to advance African prosperity and industrialisation. We seek to change the rules to be fairer but ultimately we want to promote an open system of economic and political relations.
 
Amid all these challenges, Africa remains at the centre of our foreign policy.
 
We are firmly committed to strengthening the African Union so that it increases its capacity to support the achievement of greater integration on the continent.
 
We are working towards the full implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which is set to eliminate trade barriers, boost intra African trade and achieve prosperity for all of Africa.
 
It will also accelerate manufacturing and industrial capacity on our continent.
 
The vibrant trading Africa we seek to build depends on Africa being stable and peaceful.
 
For Africa to thrive, we must silence the guns.
 
We continue to work within the African Union to end several ongoing conflicts on the continent and restore constitutional and democratic government to countries that have recently experienced coups.
 
South Africa is directly involved in a number of efforts to bring peace to Africa.
 
We are currently involved in supporting the people of Mozambique and the DRC to ensure that there is peace and stability in their countries.
 
The administration I have the honour to lead has been devoted to attracting greater trade and investment into South Africa.
 
Every visit we make to countries on our continent and across the world and every visit by heads of state from other countries focuses on strengthening economic ties.
 
When a foreign leader visits our country for a state visit, they are usually accompanied by a business delegation. We are usually accompanied by South African companies when we travel to other countries.
 
The Business Forums that are held during these visits result in greater trade, investment and business partnerships.
 
To further strengthen economic ties between African countries and the United States, South Africa is inviting more than 30 African trade ministers and senior US Administration and Congressional representatives to the next forum of the African Growth and Opportunity Act – AGOA – scheduled for November this year.
 
As part of our ongoing relationship with the countries of the European Union, we will hold the European Union-South Africa Summit later this year in South Africa to foster our investment and trade relations.
 
Recent trade statistics indicate the success of all our international links.
 
Within the first three months of this year, we exported R450 billion worth of goods in the mining, manufacturing, and agricultural sectors. Our biggest exports were to China, followed by the United States, Germany, Japan, and then India.
 
Exports to other African countries account for around a quarter of the value of all our exports.
 
Our tourism industry is recovering well from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
 
More than 4 million tourist arrivals were recorded in the first half of this year, almost twice as many arrivals as in the same period last year.
 
Companies across the globe have established new or expanded ventures in our country in sectors as diverse as energy, mining, vehicle production, the creative sector, manufacturing and many others.
 
For every rand we attract, jobs are created and sustained.
 
Our country is committed to a policy of non-alignment.
 
We have resisted pressure to align ourselves with any one of the global powers or with influential blocs of nations.
 
During the ‘Cold War’, the stability and sovereignty of many African countries was undermined because of their alignment with the major powers.
 
This experience has convinced us of the need to seek strategic partnerships with other countries rather than be dominated by any other country.
 
While some of our detractors prefer overt support for their political and ideological choices, we will not be drawn into a contest between global powers.
 
Instead, our country strives to work with all countries for global peace and development.
 
It is for this reason that South Africa is a member of the Non-Aligned Movement, a forum of 120 countries that are not formally aligned with or against any major power bloc.
 
Our decision not to align with any one of the global powers does not mean that we are neutral on matters of principle and national interest.
 
Our non-aligned position exists alongside our active support for the struggles of the oppressed and marginalised in different parts of the world.
 
We have always believed that the freedom we won – and the international solidarity from which we benefited – imposes a duty on us is to support the struggles of those who continue to experience colonialism and racial oppression.
 
That is why we will continue to support the struggles of the people of Palestine and Western Sahara.
 
We are fully committed to the articles of the United Nations Charter, including the principle that all members shall settle their international disputes by peaceful means.
 
Most recently, we participated in the African initiative to seek peace in the Ukraine-Russia conflict.
 
Through this African Peace Initiative our country continues to be involved in processes to ensure that children who were removed from their homes in Ukraine are returned to their families and that prisoners of war are exchanged.
 
We continue to be involved in the talks regarding the reopening of the Black Sea to facilitate the flow of grain.
 
We firmly believe that dialogue, mediation and diplomacy is the only viable path to end the current conflict and achieve a durable peace.
 
We support the principle of respect for the territorial integrity and sovereignty of all states and peoples.
 
In the midst of the grave challenges facing humanity, we are determined that a reformed and representative United Nations must be at the centre of global affairs.
 
Our support for the United Nations exists alongside our firm belief that this premier multilateral institution needs genuine reform to make it more democratic, representative and efficient.
 
The United Nations Security Council must be transformed into a more inclusive, more effective body that is able to ensure peace and security. 
 
We are pleased that the UN Secretary General Mr Antonio Guterres will attend the BRICS Summit at our invitation. 

South Africa, as a member of the community of nations, will continue to play a constructive role in world affairs.
 
In 2025, South Africa will assume the presidency of the G20 group of nations.
 
This will be the first time that G20 meetings will be hosted in Africa.
 
The G20 Summit in 2025 will be an opportunity for South Africa to take a lead on critical challenges facing the global community.
 
South Africa’s approach to foreign relations is to seek increased collaboration, to secure greater trade opportunities and increased investment, and to work closely with partners across the globe to entrench peace and democracy.
 
As we continue to define our place in the world, as we advance the needs of our people, we will continue to mobilise all our moral, political and economic strength on the side of peace and development for all of humanity.
 
We will continue our efforts to give effect to the call of the Freedom Charter that “There shall be peace and friendship”.
 
As the week begins tomorrow, the streets of our country will be hubs of activity as visitors from various countries will be our guests.
 
Let us welcome them and give them the warmth and hospitality that we are known for.
 
A number of them may choose to stay for a few days beyond the summit to visit the various beautiful parts of our country.
 
I call on all of us to show them the very best of South African Ubuntu.
 
I thank you.