Highlights from Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha’s South Africa Trip

On October 27, 2024, Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, arrived in South Africa for a two-day visit. This trip includes meetings in Johannesburg and Pretoria with key officials and stakeholders in anticipation of significant upcoming international events, as reported by the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA).

During his visit, Sybiha is scheduled to meet with South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, the Chairperson of the National Assembly’s Committee on Foreign Affairs, and other high-ranking officials. He will also engage with experts, leading analytical centers, and academia at the University of Pretoria, as well as representatives from South African business associations and the Ukrainian community in the country.

The MFA indicated that Sybiha will focus on enhancing political dialogue and cooperation between Ukraine and South Africa. Key topics of discussion will include promoting Ukraine’s Peace Formula as the only viable path toward comprehensive, just, and sustainable peace, as well as coordination ahead of South Africa’s presidency of the G20 in 2025 and alignment on various important international issues.

This visit concludes Sybiha’s diplomatic tour of several Arab and African countries, which included stops in Oman, Angola, and Egypt.

Engagement with the Ukrainian community

Sybiha began his day by meeting with the Ukrainian community in South Africa, which started with the national anthem and a moment of silence to honor fallen defenders of Ukraine. The minister expressed gratitude to the community for their strong support for Ukraine and emphasized the importance of maintaining Ukrainian traditions, language, and culture abroad.

He highlighted the necessity of collective efforts among partners to overcome aggression and restore peace, affirming that the activities of the Ukrainian diaspora play a vital role in fostering strong bilateral relations between Ukraine and South Africa.

Discussions with South African business leaders

In addition to engaging with the Ukrainian community, Sybiha held discussions with leaders of major South African business associations. He addressed the potential for closer cooperation, particularly in sectors such as recovery, agriculture, and technology. His visit also included laying flowers in honor of Nelson Mandela, reinforcing a commitment to shared democratic values.

In a series of tweets, Sybiha conveyed his appreciation for the warm welcome received from South African officials and underscored the importance of ongoing discussions related to global food security, freedom of navigation, and advancing Ukraine’s Peace Formula.

Andrii Sybiha calls for focus on Ukraine during South Africa’s G20 presidency

Sybiha held talks with his South African counterpart, Ronald Lamola. Sybiga expressed gratitude for the warm reception and emphasized the importance of South Africa’s voice in addressing global issues, particularly the ongoing Russian aggression against Ukraine.

He urged South Africa to maintain a focus on Ukraine during its upcoming G20 presidency, starting in December, and to support the Peace Formula aimed at achieving a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the war.

Sybiha highlighted that the war affects not only Ukraine but also millions globally, calling for increased solidarity and cooperation. He noted Ukraine’s role as a guarantor of food security amid the invasion and invited South Africa to join the International Coalition for the Return of Ukrainian Children.

The ministers affirmed their commitment to enhancing trade relations, with Sybiga suggesting the liberalization of visa regulations for Ukrainians as a step toward strengthening ties between the two nations.