South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on BRICS member nations to prioritise enhanced security cooperation, emphasising that this will strengthen the bloc’s cohesion and global influence.
Addressing leaders from Brazil, Russia, India, and China at the 16th BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, President Ramaphosa stressed the need for collective action to tackle global challenges, including terrorism, cybercrime, and emerging threats from new technologies such as artificial intelligence.
Call for Renewed Security Cooperation
Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of multilateral efforts among BRICS countries to foster mutual trust and practical collaboration. “It is through cooperation, not competition, that we can address the complex security issues facing the world today,” he stated. His call for renewed security cooperation comes at a time when multilateralism is under strain, and global challenges are increasingly interconnected.
The President also pointed to rising instability in various regions and the growing threat of cybercrime as critical issues BRICS must address. He stressed that working together as a bloc would enable BRICS to tackle these challenges effectively while safeguarding the interests of the Global South.
South Africa’s Vision for G20 Leadership
Looking ahead, Ramaphosa announced that South Africa will assume the G20 Presidency next year under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainable Development.” He framed this as an opportunity for South Africa to rally international support for practical solutions to global issues, particularly in the areas of security and sustainable development.
He emphasised that solidarity between nations is crucial for addressing shared challenges. “In an interconnected world, the challenges faced by one nation affect all nations. We must advance mutual support to ensure fair treatment and equitable opportunities for all,” Ramaphosa noted.
BRICS Expansion: A Voice for the Global South
A key highlight of the summit was the expansion of BRICS, with the inclusion of Argentina, Egypt, and Ethiopia. Ramaphosa described this as a significant moment for the Global South, showcasing the growing relevance and influence of BRICS on the world stage. “The expansion of BRICS is evidence of the increasing value of our cooperation,” he remarked.
The addition of these emerging economies is expected to enhance BRICS’ role in shaping a more multipolar world order. This expansion aligns with BRICS’ objective of representing the interests of developing nations and providing a counterbalance to Western dominance.
Ramaphosa reiterated BRICS’ commitment to advocating for a fairer global governance system, including the reform of international institutions like the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He stressed the need for an inclusive and representative UNSC, arguing that its current structure fails to reflect the interests of the global community.
BRICS and Africa: Partners in Development
For South Africa, BRICS represents a crucial platform for advancing Africa’s development. Ramaphosa emphasised that BRICS can play a vital role in supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), particularly by promoting industrialisation and the production of manufactured goods.
He expressed hope that BRICS nations would invest in Africa’s industrial growth to reduce reliance on raw material exports. Ramaphosa also reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to neutrality in global geopolitics, positioning the country as a non-aligned partner dedicated to peace and cooperation. “As BRICS countries, we demonstrate the benefits of cooperation over competition,” he added.
Addressing Global Conflicts and Injustice
Ramaphosa also addressed global conflicts, drawing parallels between South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle and the plight of the Palestinian people. He reaffirmed South Africa’s support for the Palestinian cause and expressed concern over the escalating violence in the region.
He urged the international community to work towards peace and security through collective will, criticising the UNSC for its failure to maintain international peace. Ramaphosa called on BRICS to use its influence to advocate for reforms within the UNSC and other international bodies to make them more representative and inclusive.
A New Path for BRICS
As BRICS evolves with the inclusion of new members and expands its global footprint, Ramaphosa underscored the importance of maintaining unity and building consensus. He expressed confidence that BRICS, through collective effort, can address pressing global issues such as climate change, security threats, and economic inequality.
In conclusion, President Ramaphosa thanked Russian President Vladimir Putin for hosting the summit and reiterated the importance of BRICS in shaping a fair and just global order for all.
