President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his re-election, describing the victory as a win for the Global South and progressive forces around the world.
In a statement on Monday, Ramaphosa extended his congratulations and best wishes to Lula on behalf of the South African government and people.
“On behalf of the government and the people of South Africa I congratulate my dear brother and friend, President Lula and the people of Brazil. This victory will echo beyond the shores of Brazil. It is a victory for the global south and progressive forces throughout the world,” Ramaphosa said.
He said South Africa remained committed to strengthening its relationship with Brazil and working closely with the country on shared international priorities.
“We affirm our commitment to continue strengthening bilateral relations between our two countries and working closely together in all multilateral fora to forge a just and better world order underpinned by solidarity and adherence to international law,” he said.
South Africa and Brazil have close diplomatic and strategic relations, built on cooperation between developing countries, multilateralism and shared interests in international affairs.
The two countries work together through several international groupings, including BRICS, the India-Brazil-South Africa Dialogue Forum (IBSA), the G77+China and the G20.
Their cooperation includes efforts to strengthen trade and investment, promote development and increase the influence of developing countries in global decision-making.
In March 2026, Ramaphosa undertook a state visit to Brazil at Lula’s invitation. The visit was aimed at strengthening existing political and economic ties between the two countries.
During the visit, the governments highlighted opportunities to expand bilateral trade and investment and deepen cooperation in areas including agriculture and education.
The engagement also provided an opportunity for the two countries to discuss shared priorities and their roles in international organisations.
Brazil is an important trading partner for South Africa in Latin America. The two countries have sought to expand commercial relations and identify opportunities for businesses to increase trade and investment.
South Africa exports products including mineral goods, chemicals, machinery, iron and steel, while imports from Brazil include agricultural products, machinery and mineral goods.
The countries have also supported greater cooperation among developing economies and called for international institutions to better reflect the interests of countries in the Global South.
Their partnership is underpinned by South-South cooperation, an approach that encourages developing countries to work together on economic, political and social challenges.
Both governments have also emphasised the importance of multilateralism and respect for international law in addressing global challenges.
Ramaphosa’s congratulatory message signals Pretoria’s intention to maintain close relations with Brazil and continue engaging with Lula’s administration on trade, investment and international affairs.
The relationship forms part of South Africa’s broader diplomatic engagement with Latin America and its efforts to build partnerships beyond traditional economic and political centres.
The South African government has consistently highlighted cooperation with Brazil as an opportunity to advance shared development objectives and strengthen the voice of developing countries in international forums.
Further cooperation between the two countries is expected to focus on strengthening existing agreements, expanding economic opportunities and coordinating positions on matters of mutual interest.
Ramaphosa said South Africa would continue working with Brazil in multilateral forums to promote solidarity and pursue a fairer international order.
