Ramaphosa Says South Africa’s Foreign Policy Guided By Principle, Not External Pressure

President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed that South Africa’s foreign policy will be determined by principle rather than outside influence. This follows the United States’ recent move to impose a 30% import tariff on South African goods.

Ramaphosa stressed that the government is actively seeking to reduce its reliance on traditional markets while exploring new avenues to strengthen economic resilience. “Our economic diplomacy is centred on securing market access, attracting investment and promoting sustainable development,” he wrote in his weekly newsletter.

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The president has just returned from Japan, where he focused on bolstering economic diplomacy and building stronger trade ties amid growing global tariff pressures.

A Commitment to Fair and Rules-Based Global Trade

Ramaphosa emphasised South Africa’s support for a fair and equitable international trade regime. He said the government rejects protectionist measures that place developing economies at risk of vulnerability.

“Respect for multilateralism and the pursuit of peace will continue to define our outlook, as will the advancement of social justice and human rights,” Ramaphosa noted. He underscored that South Africa’s national interest will remain independent, rooted in constitutional values, and never dictated by external powers.

Strong Stance on Global Conflicts and Human Rights

The president reiterated South Africa’s principled positions on global issues. He reaffirmed the government’s support for the statehood of Palestine and Western Sahara and called for an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine.

“As we continue to engage constructively with the international community, we have been consistent that this should always be on the basis of mutual respect,” Ramaphosa said.

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South Africa’s foreign policy, he added, will continue to be anchored in sovereignty, multilateralism, and the pursuit of peace.

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