International diplomacy remained a key ingredient to a peaceful resolution in the Russian-Ukrainian war now devastating the latter’s territory for three weeks now, South Africa’s International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini has said.
Mashego-Dlamini said this when she participated in a parliamentary debate in the Russian invasion of Ukraine in Cape Town on Tuesday.
“As a nation birthed through negotiations, South Africa is always appreciative of the potential dialogue has in averting a crisis and de-escalating conflict,” the deputy minister said.
She added: “In line with our strong commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflict, South Africa urges all parties to devote increased efforts to diplomacy — and to find a solution that will help avert further escalation (of the war).”
According to her, “the door of diplomacy should never be closed, even as the conflict has broken out.”
Mashego-Dlamini said South Africa’s approach to the Russia-Ukraine conflict has been based on several key principles which, in turn, were based on the country’s foreign policy.
These included expressing deep concern at the violation of the UN Charter and international law, the loss of life, the humanitarian impact, and the forced displacement of people as a result of the war in Ukraine, she said.
She also said recognising that armed conflicts would no doubt result in human suffering and destruction, the effects of which would not only affect Ukraine, but also reverberate across the world.
“As the government of South Africa, we urge all South Africans not to take sides in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, as this could go against our principles. In addition, South Africa has good bilateral relations with both countries,” the deputy minister said.
NM/jn/APA