Approaching just peace, releasing prisoners and returning children abducted by Russia: President of Ukraine met with President of South Africa

Volodymyr Zelenskyy informed about the consequences of Russian shelling of Ukraine on the night of Thursday. Russia has used more than 200 aircraft: rockets, including ballistic and shock drones. There are more than 80 wounded. The head of state said that because of this Russian attack, he decided to cut the program of visit to South Africa. In order to show respect and hold all the planned meetings, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andriy Sibiga remains in the South African Republic.

“We are grateful to you for respect for Ukraine, for support and the same feeling with us that this war should be completed as soon as possible. Today, we first spoke with President Ramfosa, ”he said. Volodymyr Zelensky and Ramafos Siril discussed how important it is to combine all global efforts and provide pressure on Russia for peace. Separately referred to the opportunities at the level of the Twenty Group, in which couples are presiding this year.

"The South African Republic is ready and continues to support all efforts, including multilateral, to achieve a just, sustainable, comprehensive peace," President of South Africa said. The head of the Ukrainian state emphasized the problem of the release of prisoners and the return of children. During the meeting, he gave a list of 400 Ukrainian children stolen by Russia. In addition, the leaders discussed the issues of bilateral agenda.

Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine has the opportunity to guarantee energy security, agriculture, fertilizer production, security industries and technologies. Ukraine also suggested that the couple create a common mineral hub for the production and transportation of fertilizers.   “We can also work together to significantly increase the generation of electricity in your country - from atomic to renewable energy. Affordable and cheap energy always helps economic growth.

I instructed our government officials to work out in detail every possible project, ”the President said. Syril Ramafos noted that the South African Republic is interested in developing all possible areas of cooperation with Ukraine. “We note the efforts made by Ukraine, including President Zelensky, to expand relations with African countries.