Lady R diplomatic dispute resolved: In a significant diplomatic development, United States National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan hosted a phone conversation on Tuesday with South Africa National Security Advisor Sydney Mufamadi.
The two counterparts discussed many issues, most notably the contentious topic involving allegations that South Africa supplied arms to Russia for its war in Ukraine.
Lady R
A Russian cargo ship (Lady R) had docked in Cape Town’s Simon’s Town last December. Then, in May, US Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben Brigety accused the government of supplying weapons to its BRICS partner.
The accusation caused volatile currency activity for the ZAR, and prompted President Cyril Ramaphosa to establish a panel tasked with investigating what was loaded onto Lady R.
The panel found the ship docked at Simon’s Town to deliver equipment ordered for the South African National Defence Force in 2018 by Armscor, the country’s arms procurement company.
“The panel found that there was no evidence to support the claim that the ship transported weapons from South Africa destined for Russia.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa, 3 September 2023
Mended fences
Now, National Security Advisor Sullivan has expressed his gratitude for the sincere and comprehensive response from Ramaphosa regarding the activities relating to the mysterious Lady R.
“This acknowledgement highlighted the seriousness with which the South African government had addressed these matters,” said Sullivan.
The two National Security Advisors emphasised the enduring strength of the partnership between South Africa and the United States.
They expressed their mutual commitment to advancing shared objectives, including trade and investment, infrastructure development, healthcare, and the global challenge of climate change.
In Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the two advisors confirmed their intention to maintain ongoing dialogue, working together to explore pathways toward achieving a peaceful peace in the region.
This continued collaboration demonstrates the shared dedication to international security and stability between the two nations.
Sullivan also thanked the South African government for hosting the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) Forum, scheduled in early November.
AGOA holds significant importance in U.S. relations with the African region, emphasising economic development, trade, and partnership in pursuing common goals.
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