South Africa, Brazil Deepen Strategic Ties During Ramaphosa’s State Visit

Speaking after the meeting on Monday, President Ramaphosa described the talks as constructive and forward-looking, highlighting the shared priorities between the two nations.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Brazil, following bilateral talks with Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva during a State Visit to Brasília.

The discussions focused on expanding cooperation across key sectors, boosting trade and investment, and advancing joint programmes aimed at economic growth and sustainable development.

Expanding Bilateral Cooperation

Speaking after the meeting on Monday, President Ramaphosa described the talks as constructive and forward-looking, highlighting the shared priorities between the two nations.

“These shared values provide a strong basis for building practical, mutually beneficial programmes that advance our respective national development priorities,” Ramaphosa said.

The South African leader was accompanied by a delegation of ministers and officials who held engagements with their Brazilian counterparts to explore opportunities for cooperation across multiple sectors.

Tribute to Brazil Flood Victims

During his remarks, President Ramaphosa also expressed condolences to families affected by the recent floods and landslides in Brazil’s Minas Gerais state.

“We wish to pay our respects to the victims of the recent floods and landslides in the state of Minas Gerais and convey our deepest condolences to the families of those who lost their lives,” he said.

Reflecting on South Africa’s Democratic Milestone

The State Visit coincides with South Africa marking the 30th anniversary of its democratic Constitution, a milestone Ramaphosa said provides an opportunity to reflect on the country’s democratic progress.

He acknowledged Brazil’s solidarity with South Africa during the apartheid era, noting that support from the Brazilian people contributed to the struggle for freedom and the establishment of democracy in South Africa.

Call for Peace in Middle East

Ramaphosa also addressed global security concerns, referring to the renewed conflict in the Middle East.

“We condemn the loss of civilian life and the destruction of vital infrastructure. We call for an immediate cessation of hostilities,” he said, reiterating South Africa’s support for peaceful conflict resolution in accordance with the United Nations Charter.

Strengthening Trade and Economic Partnerships

Economic cooperation was a central focus of the visit. Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of expanding trade ties and improving reciprocal market access between the two countries.

He emphasised the role of the Preferential Trade Agreement between the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and MERCOSUR, which is expected to facilitate greater trade flows between southern Africa and South America.

The President said engagements with the Brazil–South Africa Business Forum and government counterparts would help identify new commercial opportunities.

Cooperation in Agriculture and Education

The visit also produced progress in several areas of bilateral collaboration.

Two agreements were concluded:

• Memorandum of Intent on Agriculture

• Memorandum of Understanding on Basic Education

These agreements are expected to enhance cooperation in agricultural development, knowledge exchange, and education systems.

Gateway to Regional Markets

President Ramaphosa highlighted the strategic economic roles played by both nations in their respective regions.

According to him:

• South Africa serves as a gateway for Brazil to access African markets

• Brazil offers South Africa an entry point to Latin America and the Caribbean

“This visit strengthens these linkages and supports broader regional engagement,” Ramaphosa said.

Joint Commission to Meet Later This Year

The leaders also discussed the upcoming eighth session of the South Africa–Brazil Joint Commission, scheduled to take place later this year, which will review progress and set new priorities for bilateral cooperation.

Concluding his visit, Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Brazil and extended an invitation to President Lula da Silva to undertake a State Visit to South Africa in the near future.