Ramaphosa congratulates Lula on historic fourth-term re-election

President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his re-election for a historic fourth term. Ramaphosa says Lula’s victory resonates beyond Brazil, describing it as a victory for the Global South. The two countries are partners in BRICS and other multilateral forums. Vincent Magwenya, presidential spokesperson, says, “On behalf of the government and the people of South Africa, President Ramaphosa congratulates his dear brother and friend, President Lula, and the people of Brazil. Magwenya says this victory will echo beyond the shores of Brazil. “It is a victory for the global south and progressive forces throughout the world.” “South Africa affirms its commitment to continuously strengthening bilateral relations between the 2 countries, and working closely together in all multilateral fora, to forge a just and better world order, and solidarity and adherence to international law,” says Magwenya. PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA CONGRATULATES PRESIDENT LULA ON HIS RE-ELECTION President @CyrilRamaphosa has on behalf of the government and the people of South Africa extended his warm congratulations and well wishes to President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on the occasion of his re-election for a historic fourth term. Brazil and South Africa maintain a close bilateral and strategic relationship founded on South-South cooperation, multilateralism and shared leadership within BRICS, IBSA, the G77+China and the G20. In March 2026, President Ramaphosa undertook a state visit to Brazil at the invitation of President Lula. The visit further enhanced the existing bilateral trade and political relationship. “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. 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”, says President Ramaphosa. ISSUED BY THE PRESIDENCY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA — The Presidency (@PresidencyZA) October 26, 2026