Zelenskyy Pitches Energy and Agriculture Partnership to South Africa To Boost Regional Trade

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed launching a joint “mineral hub” in South Africa to boost fertilizer production and transportation across the region, offering support in energy, agriculture, and security cooperation during a joint press conference with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, according to Ukrainian outlet Ukrinform on April 24.

“We are ready to work together with South Africa to build more of the production capacities your country needs for modern, sustainable energy and new export opportunities,” Zelenskyy said.

“Ukraine is offering South Africa a joint ‘mineral hub’—a facility for fertilizer production and transportation that would support your entire region,” he added.

“There is also significant potential in the agro-industrial sector. Our joint projects in agriculture and other industries can increase bilateral trade between Ukraine and South Africa.”

Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s readiness to cooperate with South Africa on advanced security systems and in expanding electricity generation, including both nuclear and renewable energy sources.

The two leaders also discussed international efforts to secure peace in Ukraine. Zelenskyy stressed the urgency of global unity to increase pressure on Russia.

“We also spoke about possibilities within the G20,” Zelenskyy said. “South Africa is currently chairing the G20, and the role of the G20 nations could be far greater in protecting lives. We are counting on that.”

Earlier, Zelenskyy arrived in South Africa for high-level talks with President Ramaphosa but was forced to shorten his visit following a massive Russian missile and drone attack on Kyiv and several other Ukrainian cities.

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