Jakarta: President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the Republic of Indonesia for its longstanding solidarity with South Africa and acknowledged the role that the Asian country played as an ally during the struggle against apartheid. The President was delivering opening remarks during bilateral talks as part of his State Visit to Indonesia on Wednesday. The Southeast Asian country was also the scene of the first Asia-Africa Conference – called the Bandung Conference – some 70 years ago which was attended by newly independent states and representatives of the struggle against apartheid in South Africa.

According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa stated that the Bandung Conference of 1955 was a significant source of encouragement to the leaders of South Africa’s liberation struggle who were present there. He expressed gratitude for Indonesia’s consistent support and solidarity during the struggle against apartheid, highlighting the historical ties between the two nations.

Now, the two countries form part of the world’s intergovernmental organizations such as the BRICS+ group of countries. President Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of working closely with Indonesia and other BRICS countries on shared priorities, such as driving global reforms. He highlighted the potential of the BRICS economic partnership to support development and transformation in both nations and encouraged deeper Indonesian participation in BRICS structures.

The two countries are also part of the G20 Forum, with South Africa currently holding the Presidency. President Ramaphosa appreciated Indonesia’s contribution to the G20 and expressed anticipation for Indonesia’s participation in the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg. He emphasized the significance of Indonesia’s presence in the G20, particularly as both countries represent key voices in the global South.

President Ramaphosa is accompanied on the State Visit by Minister of Defence and Military Veterans, Angie Motshekga, Department of Trade, Industry and Competition Minister, Parks Tau, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes. He highlighted this delegation as a demonstration of the shared commitment to deepening cooperation, especially in trade between the two nations.

President Ramaphosa described South Africa as a gateway to the African continent, well-positioned to serve as a strategic base for Indonesian investment and trade expansion into Africa. He stressed the importance of enhancing bilateral trade ties and expanding market access between South Africa and Indonesia as a response to shifting global dynamics and trade tensions.

The two countries have enjoyed cordial relations for decades, and South Africa remains committed to working closely with Indonesia to expand and deepen political, economic, and sectoral cooperation. President Ramaphosa emphasized the need to finalize and implement existing agreements to elevate bilateral relations, based on mutual political trust and partnership, and deliver tangible benefits to both nations’ peoples.