President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended Ireland for its principled stance on the war in Gaza, saying the world must unite to end what he described as Israel’s genocide against the Palestinian people.
Speaking at a luncheon hosted by Irish President Michael Higgins during his official visit to Dublin, President Ramaphosa said South Africa was encouraged by Ireland’s decision to recognise the State of Palestine as part of a just and lasting peace.
“South Africa commends Ireland for its consistent, principled position on Israel’s war on Gaza. There is growing global consensus that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza and that the world must unite to end the conflict. We are encouraged by Ireland’s decision to recognise the Palestinian State as a vital part of a just and enduring peace,” the President said.
He emphasised the need for dialogue and diplomacy in resolving global conflicts, including the war between Russia and Ukraine.
“The pursuit of peace through dialogue and diplomacy is now more essential than ever. That is why South Africa has repeatedly called for dialogue and negotiation to resolve the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. We continue to emphasise the importance of achieving peace in all conflicts through negotiation rather than force,” he said.
Strengthening ties
President Ramaphosa’s visit to Ireland marks an important moment in the strengthening of ties between the two nations, built on shared history and mutual respect.
The President noted that beyond the two countries’ strong bilateral relationship, Ireland and South Africa share deep fraternal bonds that date back many years.
“We remember with gratitude and humility the support that the Irish people gave to our struggle for democracy and freedom. The struggles of our respective peoples for statehood have rendered us kin. So, when South Africans visit Ireland, it is a homecoming,” he said.
The President said Ireland and its people hold a special place in his heart, recalling his involvement in Northern Ireland’s peace process.
“Alongside President Martti Ahtisaari of Finland, I was honoured to have played a small part in the decommissioning process in Northern Ireland. I have always held the greatest admiration for the Irish people; for their resilience, for their unwavering courage and for the principled solidarity. Ireland has always extended a hand to those suffering oppression and injustice,” President Ramaphosa said.
He also highlighted ongoing cooperation through the South Africa-Ireland Joint Commission for Cooperation, which he said was rooted in mutual respect and a common commitment to multilateralism.
“We share a vision of a just, peaceful and more equal world order in which all countries can develop and thrive,” he said.
The President noted that South Africa is Ireland’s largest trading partner in Africa, with imports ranging from aircraft and pharmaceuticals to data processing machinery.
“According to the Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria, South Africa imported approximately 46 million Euros of Irish whiskey last year. This is one of the many Irish traditions that we South Africans cherish and celebrate,” he remarked.
He praised collaboration in education and research, including the Kader Asmal Fellowship, which has provided more than 100 South African students with scholarship opportunities in Ireland’s higher education institutions since 2012.
G20 Presidency
President Ramaphosa said South Africa was honoured to be leading the G20 under the theme Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability, and welcomed Ireland’s participation as a guest country.
“For the G20 to retain its relevance in today’s turbulent world, it must address issues of development, debt sustainability, climate action and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals,” he said.
As the event drew to a close, President Ramaphosa thanked President Higgins for his leadership and friendship.
“Mr President, as you come to the end of your term, I would like to thank you for your leadership and unwavering commitment to a just and equitable world.
“I wish you well in your future endeavours and wish the Irish people a successful Presidential election on the 24th of October. Thank you once again for your warm friendship and hospitality. This has indeed been a homecoming for us,” the President said. – SAnews.gov.za
