Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 25 January 2024
69. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had any discussion with his South African counterpart on that country’s ongoing close relationship with the Russian Federation that has continued despite Russia’s war of aggression in Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3003/24]
Amharc ar fhreagraI had a very substantive meeting with my South African counterpart, Minister Naledi Pandor, during my visit to South Africa last July, and subsequently spoke to her in detail by phone on 19 December. We covered a range of foreign policy issues and shared perspectives on the consequences of the illegal Russian invasion of Ukraine. I stated Ireland’s clear position on the illegal war of aggression, which is in contravention of the UN Charter, and on our support for Ukraine and its people. I set out the strong response of the EU to Russia’s attempts to redraw its borders through force. Minister Pandor reiterated South Africa’s belief that the UN Charter must be respected and that no country should occupy another.
The participation by South Africa in the African Peace Initiative last year, with visits to Ukraine and Russia, was intended to promote a peaceful resolution, and to raise awareness of the millions of Africans affected by food insecurity. The invasion has exacerbated an existing global food and nutrition security crisis.
South Africa is a member of the BRICS grouping, which includes Russia. South Africa views this economic grouping as a key platform to address their concerns on imbalances in the multilateral system. It is of course also used by Russia to work to influence other countries on the situation in Ukraine.
Ireland and South Africa have had a warm and enduring friendship over 30 years of diplomatic relations, which is the result of important shared moments in our histories. These include the Irish people's support for the fight to end apartheid in South Africa and South Africa's valuable assistance to the Northern Ireland peace process.
South Africa is an important partner for Europe, with a key leadership role in regional peace, security and economic initiatives. I will maintain contact South Africa in the period ahead on foreign policy issues, including the war in Ukraine following Russia’s illegal invasion.
