President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in St. Petersburg, Russia to lead South Africa’s participation in the 2nd Russia-Africa Summit, scheduled for 27th and 28th July 2023.

The main objective of the Summit is to promote mutually beneficial cooperation and partnerships between Russia and African countries. The first Summit was held in October 2019, with a commitment to convene every three years.

During this 2nd Summit, four declarations and a three-year Action Plan will be presented for consideration. These submissions will focus on strengthening cooperation between Russia and African states in various areas such as politics, security, trade, science, IT, humanitarian support, education, culture, sports, youth, and the environment. The declarations also aim to enhance collaboration in fighting terrorism, preventing an arms race in outer space, and ensuring information security.

In addition to the main Summit, there will be side events including an exhibition showcasing investment opportunities in Russia and Africa, an innovation space featuring new technologies, and a Business Development and Social Partnership Zone for networking among global corporations, government officials, business leaders, and the media.

South Africa intends to utilize the summit as an opportunity to deepen its engagement with Russia on a bilateral level, with the aim of finalizing the details and substance of the upcoming BRICS summit. President Ramaphosa will head the South African delegation, accompanied by Dr. Naledi Pandor, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, and Ms. Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Minister in the Presidency.