Image Source: BusinessLive
World – At the 16th BRICS Summit, President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed South Africa’s deep concern about the escalating number of conflicts around the world. Addressing world leaders, he stressed the need for peaceful resolutions to these disputes, both at regional and international levels, through dialogue and negotiation.
Ramaphosa specifically condemned the ongoing genocide in Gaza, stating that neither South Africa nor the international community could remain silent in the face of such injustice, suffering, and the loss of innocent Palestinian lives, including women and children.
He called for decisive action from the international community and the UN Security Council to address Israel’s aggression and escalation, citing Israel’s deadly attacks on Lebanon and threats against Iran.
“This genocide led South Africa to approach the International Court of Justice with a view to stopping the killing of innocent women and children in Gaza. We believe the world cannot sit by and watch the suffering. The world cannot afford a region-wide escalation of the conflict.”
“South Africa has been unwavering in advocating for a two-state solution that would see an independent Palestinian state along the borders set out in 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital. This would be in line with UN resolutions, international law and internationally agreed parameters.”
“We call on the international community and the UN Security Council in particular to address the spiralling conflict.”
Turning attention to Sudan, Ramaphosa highlighted the civil war and humanitarian crisis ravaging the country, criticising the global community’s lack of action. He lamented the silence around Sudan’s suffering, drawing parallels to the instability gripping the Sahel and Great Lakes regions, all of which demand urgent intervention and sustainable solutions.
“On our own continent, Sudan enters its second year of horrific conflict and devastation. This is another conflict the world seems to have forgotten about. The protracted conflicts in the Sahel and Great Lakes regions in Africa persist.”
“We must find lasting solutions to all these conflicts. We must remain committed to the peaceful resolution of all disputes through negotiation and inclusive dialogue … We cannot allow conflicts to continue in perpetuity. We need to find paths to peace.”
Ramaphosa also reflected on the importance of multilateral cooperation, urging nations to work together while honouring each country’s sovereignty and right to shape its foreign policies. He underlined that reforming global institutions is essential to building a more peaceful and secure world.
“In our quest for a more interconnected, just and prosperous world, we have the ability to foster an environment of peace through a focus on sustainable development. We must continue to support nations and peoples who seek to end the cycle of conflict and choose the path of peace.”
