SA's foreign policy outlook will be determined by principle, not external forces - Ramaphosa

CAPE TOWN - President Cyril Ramaphosa says the country’s foreign policy outlook will be determined by principle and not by pressure exerted by external forces.

In light of the United States' recent 30 percent import tariff slapped on South Africa, Ramaphosa said government was continuing to explore ways to reduce dependence on historical markets.

Ramaphosa has just returned from a trip to Japan to strengthen economic diplomacy ties amid the global trade headwinds and tariff pressures.

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Writing in his weekly newsletter, Ramaphosa said that the country’s economic diplomacy was centred on securing market access, attracting investment and promoting sustainable development.

He said South Africa continues to advocate for an international trade regime that was fair, equitable and rules-based.

The president said that government did not want to see developing economies vulnerable to unilateral measures or protectionist pressures.

In a similar vein, Ramaphosa said that the country’s foreign policy was anchored in multilateralism and the respect for sovereignty.

"Respect for multilateralism and the pursuit of peace will continue to define our outlook, as will the advancement of social justice and human rights," the president wrote.

He said that South Africa's national interest would forever remain independent, not beholden to external influence and would reflect the country’s constitutional values.

"As we continue to engage constructively with the international community, we have been consistent that this should always be on the basis of mutual respect,"said Ramaphosa.

Ramaphosa reiterated government’s principled support for statehood for the people of Palestine and Western Sahara, and for an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine.