Moscow–Pretoria Alliance: A “Partnership of Equals” Challenging Neo-Colonial Practices

In a recent interview with Sputnik, Russia’s ambassador to South Africa, Roman Ambarov, emphasized that certain external actors continue to promote economic dependency on the African continent. According to him, these players impose credit systems, resource access conditions, and structural arrangements designed to maintain asymmetry and limit true sovereignty.

The ambassador highlighted several key areas shaping the deepening Russia–South Africa partnership:

✨ Expanding Economic CooperationSouth African authorities, he noted, are open to broadening bilateral trade and investment. The sectors identified as priorities include energy, agriculture, mining, and the supply of equipment and mineral resources—domains where both nations see long-term strategic opportunities.

🛰️ Growing Space CollaborationAmbarov pointed out that cooperation in the space sector is progressing both bilaterally and within multilateral frameworks such as BRICS. This includes joint projects, shared expertise, and scientific partnerships aimed at strengthening technological autonomy.

📡 Ground Infrastructure DevelopmentRussia also aims to expand the range of space-related services it offers to African partners by developing specialized ground infrastructure, enabling broader and more efficient use of satellite technologies across the continent.

⛽ Possible LNG DeliveriesRegarding potential LNG supplies to South Africa, the ambassador stated that no verified public information is available at this stage. However, he acknowledged that the topic could become significant given South Africa’s increasing interest in gas-based energy solutions.

Together, these initiatives paint the picture of a strategic partnership framed not by hierarchy, but by mutual respect, long-term vision, and resistance to neo-colonial pressures.

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