South Africa will continue to champion dialogue, the peaceful resolution of disputes, the protection of civilians and respect for human rights, President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Friday.
“International law must apply consistently, without exception or favour. The principles of the United Nations Charter must be respected by all nations, whatever their economic or military power. We cannot build a stable international order on selective justice, unilateralism or the idea that might makes right.
“We will continue to champion dialogue, the peaceful resolution of disputes, the protection of civilians and respect for human rights,” the President said.
This, as President Ramaphosa received letters of credence from newly accredited heads of mission to South Africa at the Sefako Makgatho Presidential Guest House in Pretoria.
The President welcomed the new heads of mission, saying their presence affirms the value that their governments place on their relations with South Africa.
He said South Africa stands ready to deepen its bilateral relations and to build new partnerships of mutual benefit.
President Ramaphosa said the ambassadors assume their responsibilities at a particularly consequential moment in international affairs.
“The world is marked by heightened geopolitical competition, shifting alliances and growing uncertainty about the future of the international order. Conflicts in different parts of the world continue to exact an enormous human toll.
“The situations in the Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan and elsewhere remind us of the devastating cost of war and the failure of diplomacy. These conflicts disrupt global trade, undermine food and energy security, and place a heavy burden on countries like ours.
“At the same time, the multilateral system, particularly the United Nations, is under considerable strain,” he explained.
President Ramaphosa said the answer to the crisis facing multilateralism is not "less multilateralism", but better, more representative and more effective multilateralism.
“Our foreign policy is anchored in the values of our Constitution, which marks its 30th anniversary this year. These values – human dignity, equality, non-racialism, non-sexism, freedom and justice – shape how we engage with the world.”
He said South Africa seeks constructive relations with all countries, whatever their political systems or economic models. These relations are guided by mutual respect, equality and the pursuit of shared interests.
“The challenges facing humanity require us to engage across political, ideological and geographical divides.”
Africa, the President said, remains at the centre of South Africa’s foreign policy.
In August, South Africa assumed the Chairpersonship of the Southern African Development Community for 2026 and 2027.
“Our focus is on regional industrialisation, infrastructure development, agricultural transformation and food security. We are determined to expand the beneficiation of our critical minerals.
“Africa must move beyond being a supplier of raw materials to become a centre of production, innovation and value addition.”
He invited the heads of mission to work with South Africa through investment, technology transfer, skills development, infrastructure financing and trade.
“Our vision is of an Africa that is peaceful, integrated and prosperous. As the first African country to hold the G20 Presidency, we will continue to champion inclusive growth, debt sustainability, climate justice and food security.”
“As you take up your assignments, I assure you of the full support and cooperation of the South African Government. South Africa is a country of remarkable diversity, rich heritage and immense potential,” President Ramaphosa said. - SAnews.gov.za
