Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is planning to undertake an important working visit to the Republic of South Africa on Thursday, April 24, according to official sources and reputable media outlets
This is a significant diplomatic trip aimed at revitalizing Ukraine-South Africa relations within the context of current international challenges and the ongoing war in Ukraine. According to information released by Interfax-Ukraine, as well as South African publications Eyewitness News and the official representation of the South African Cabinet, Zelensky has already departed for this visit. The South African President’s Office has confirmed that the President’s schedule in Pretoria primarily consists of official business meetings, including negotiations with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa. It is expected that the discussions will focus on the war in Ukraine, possibilities for diplomatic conflict resolution, and Africa’s role in the peace-making process. Sources highlight the fact that Cyril Ramaphosa currently heads the African Peace Initiative — an international mission involving several African leaders, aimed at facilitating efforts toward a diplomatic resolution of the Ukraine conflict. This initiative, considered a key prerequisite for any peacekeeping processes in the region, underscores Africa’s role as a neutral mediator and potential arbiter in diplomatic negotiations. Another important aspect of the visit is the participation of the Ukrainian delegation in events aimed at developing economic ties. Specifically, Ukraine’s First Vice Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Julia Sviridenko, is currently in South Africa. She has already held several meetings on April 23-24, focused on establishing trade relations, forming new business partnerships, and signing agreements to promote economic development in both countries. This represents a crucial step in strengthening bilateral relations, especially during times of contemporary challenges and global changes. Additionally, it is worth noting that as part of this visit, the presidential Airbus A319 Corporate Jet departed from Rzeszów, Poland, on Wednesday. Reports indicate that the flight of this aircraft was somewhat delayed, and the plane refueled in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, at the start of the journey. It then continued its flight at 18:21 toward South Africa, laying the groundwork for the planned negotiations and meetings. Overall, the purpose of this visit is pragmatic and strategic: to enhance political dialogue with African countries, involve them in efforts to seek a peaceful resolution of the conflict, and promote Ukraine’s economic interests by strengthening trade and economic relations with African nations. It is clear that this diplomatic step is an important element of Ukraine’s foreign policy in its quest to find new allies and partners worldwide, as well as to draw global attention to Ukraine’s issues and efforts in the struggle for independence and territorial integrity.