Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Brazil's president, right, and Cyril Ramaphosa, South Africa's president, during a joint press conference at Planalto Palace in Brasilia, Brazil, on March 9, 2026. Photo: CFP

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said the leadership of Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has played a decisive role in strengthening the strategic partnership between Brazil and South Africa. The remarks were made during a joint statement in Brasília as part of Ramaphosa's state visit to Brazil, according to reporting by O Estado de São Paulo Paulo and Brasil 247.

In his address, Ramaphosa emphasized Lula's role in deepening bilateral ties and expanding cooperation between the two countries, describing Brazil as a strategic ally across multiple areas.

"President Lula, your leadership has strengthened the foundations of our strategic partnership. We see Brazil as a strategic partner in many ways and value your cooperation and collaboration across a wide range of areas. South Africa and Brazil share commitments to equality, economic growth and poverty eradication," Ramaphosa said.

Ramaphosa noted that relations between the two countries are grounded in shared values and a shared pursuit of inclusive development. According to the South African leader, cooperation between Brasília and Pretoria has relevance not only at the bilateral level but also within broader coordination among Global South countries.

He said the partnership spans multiple sectors, including economic cooperation, social development and international political coordination. The convergence of priorities, such as reducing inequality and promoting economic growth, remains a central pillar of the relationship.

The South African president also referred to Lula's participation in the G20 summit held in Johannesburg and to Brazil's previous presidency of the group. Ramaphosa thanked the Brazilian leader for his presence and highlighted Lula's contribution to strengthening the political relevance of the forum that brings together major global economies.

"President Lula, thank you once again for your generosity, hospitality and the spirit of partnership that continues to define our relations. I would also like to thank you for your presence at the G20 in Johannesburg. Your participation elevated the status of the G20, and South Africa had the great privilege of assuming the presidency after Brazil's term, as we learned a great deal from your leadership and adopted several of your initiatives," he said.

Ramaphosa added that South Africa expects continued cooperation during its current presidency of the group. "We count on your support as we continue the excellent work that Brazil began during its G20 presidency," he said.

Concluding his remarks, the South African president highlighted the closeness of relations between the two nations and thanked Brazil for the reception during the official visit. "For us in South Africa, being in Brazil is like being in our second home. We are deeply proud of the way we have been received here," he said.

In a personal message addressed to Lula, Ramaphosa added: "Thank you very much, my comrade, my friend."

Ramaphosa's state visit included bilateral meetings with President Lula, institutional engagements and participation in activities aimed at strengthening economic and political cooperation between Brazil and South Africa. Both countries are members of BRICS, a grouping of emerging economies that has expanded its role in international coordination.

(Reported by Brasil 247 on March 10, 2026)