Deputy President Mashatile Bolsters SA-Russia Relations with Visit to Putin as he is Strengthening Ties

Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Russian President Vladimir Putin

Deputy President Paul Mashatile paid a courtesy visit to Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday afternoon at the Constantine Palace in St. Petersburg, Russia. This visit was part of a three-day working visit to Russia aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between South Africa and the Russian Federation.

Mashatile expressed gratitude to Putin and the Russian people for their role in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle and South Africa's socio-economic emancipation. He emphasized the importance of translating the strong foundation of their strategic relations into higher trade and economic ties for the mutual benefit of both countries and their people.

Mashatile highlighted South Africa's delight in participating in the Saint Petersburg International Economic Forum, 2025, which reflects efforts to deepen trade and economic relations.

He also requested Russia's support in reconsidering South Africa's status from developed to developing country within the Eurasian Economic Union, which would significantly impact South African products and trade to the Eurasian market.

Putin affirmed that relations between Russia and South Africa are developing successfully on the basis of a comprehensive strategic partnership, equality, and mutual respect. He noted that bilateral trade between the two countries saw an increase of approximately 2% in 2024 and expressed optimism that this trend would continue.

The two leaders discussed ways to further strengthen cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, mineral and energy, agriculture, health, and education. Mashatile also met with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin to unlock areas of further cooperation and delivered a Public Lecture at St. Petersburg University on "South Africa's Presidency in a rapidly changing geopolitical environment."

The visit demonstrates the commitment of both countries to strengthening their bilateral relations and exploring new opportunities for cooperation. As Mashatile noted, "We are working tirelessly towards translation of the strong foundation of our strategic relations into higher trade and economic ties for the mutual benefit of our countries and our people."

South African delegation led by Deputy President Paul Mashatile.

Russian delegation led by President Vladimir Putin.