Ramaphosa Meets Putin Ahead Of BRICS Summit
President Cyril Ramaphosa held bilateral talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi today, Friday ahead of the 18th BRICS Summit, which begins tommorow, Saturday.
The meeting focused on strengthening South Africa-Russia relations, trade and cooperation, as well as preparations for the upcoming Russia-Africa summit in Moscow.
Ramaphosa thanked Putin for Russia’s support during South Africa’s G20 presidency and said there was scope to further expand bilateral trade. He also welcomed continued cooperation between the two countries and indicated that South Africa would send a strong delegation to the Russia-Africa summit.
The 18th BRICS Summit will take place at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi from 12 to 13 September under India’s chairship.
South Africa has consistently called for a diplomatic and peaceful resolution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ramaphosa also discussed peace efforts and South Africa-Russia cooperation with Putin during talks in February 2026.
