Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has confirmed that the Brics (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) summit will proceed as scheduled in Johannesburg.
During a media briefing on Thursday, Ntshavheni assured the media that any changes to the much-expected event would be duly communicated.
She addressed concerns about the potential attendance of Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating that an announcement would be made in due course whether he will participate physically or virtually.
She further emphasized that any invited leaders would be treated as esteemed guests, including Putin, should he be present.
“We have indicated that so far the [Brics] summit continues in Johannesburg. Any changes will be announced and whoever we have invited [Russian President Putin] will be treated as a guest,” Ntshavheni said.
The minister made reference to remarks by former president Dmitry Medvedev, who suggested that the arrest of Putin would be seen as a declaration of war against Russia.
Ntshavheni emphasized that South Africa has no intention to engage in any conflict with Russia. “I don’t think this country wants to go to war with Russia.
“It’s up to the inter-ministerial committee to find a way around the ICC [International Criminal Court] arrest warrant and president Putin’s [possible] attendance.
“We will work in pursuit of this country’s national interests and the upholding of the rule of law in this country.”
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