Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha held a meeting with Greg Mills, the head of the Brenthurst Foundation, one of Africa’s foremost think tanks in the field of economic development, and his deputy, Ray Hartley.

The Minister briefed the representatives of South Africa’s expert community on Ukraine’s latest diplomatic efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive, just, and sustainable peace, as well as Ukraine’s vision for ending the war.

He emphasized the importance of global unity in putting an end to Russia’s aggression against Ukraine. In this context, South Africa’s role as the current chair of the G20 is of particular significance.

The parties exchanged views on the development of Ukraine’s relations with African countries and the expansion of mutually beneficial economic cooperation. They especially highlighted the success and significance of the recent official visit of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to the Republic of South Africa.

Andrii Sybiha stressed that Ukraine’s commitment to more active trade and economic engagement with African countries is evidenced by the significant expansion of its diplomatic presence across the continent. Ukraine is ready to offer African partners not only agricultural products but also modern technologies to help strengthen their self-sufficiency.

Ukraine also seeks to participate in infrastructure development projects that will contribute to the economic growth of African nations.

The Minister noted that promising areas of cooperation between Ukraine and African countries include fertilizer production, energy security, mechanical engineering, mineral extraction, maritime trade and shipping, drone manufacturing, defense technologies, healthcare, digitalization, education, and science.

The participants agreed on the importance of maintaining regular exchanges with leading representatives of Africa’s expert community — both to identify effective ways of fostering dynamic dialogue at all levels and to improve the visibility of developments around Ukraine for local audiences.