Thobile Jiwulane
Victory Day came to life within South African borders on Friday, when senior South African, Russian, and Chinese officials and people celebrated the 80th anniversary of Victory Day in Cape Town.
The meeting also served to cement the relationships between South Africa and Russia and China as they jointly observe the important day. It also highlighted the strengthening of the relationships between them as they filtered to the grassroots with a huge attendance of Chinese citizens and the Khoisan community to observe the Victory Day.
The successful event, spearheaded by former Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and President of the People’s Movement for Change (PMC) commemorated the end of World War II and celebrated the significant contributions of international allies in the global fight for freedom and democracy and highlighted Russia’s role in the decisive victory against the Nazi Germany.
The highlight of the evening was the screening of the first episode of the documentary series, The Legacy of Hope: Freedom Through Solidarity: The Russia, Cuba, South African Chapter. Fransman said this powerful documentary unveiled the significant yet often untold contributions of Russia, Cuba, and other nations in the liberation movement, leading to a free and democratic South Africa.
The documentary and discussions provided a comprehensive look into the role Russia played in supporting African nations during their liberation struggles. The Soviet Union, and later Russia, provided military training, financial assistance, and political support to several African countries, including South Africa. During apartheid, this support was crucial for the African National Congress (ANC) and its armed wing, Umkhonto we Sizwe (MK). The historical ties cultivated a sense of brotherhood based on shared struggles against imperialism and colonialism.
The audience was deeply engaged during the screening and participated actively in the Q&A session with Hanief Tesiker, notably quoting Fransman, emphasising, “An injustice somewhere is an injustice everywhere,” underscoring the enduring importance of international solidarity. Calvyn Gilfellin, CEO of The Castle of Goodhope, expressed immense enthusiasm and support, ensuring the Castle will serve as a venue for such discussions, with the official launch set for the end of June 2025.
Fransman, in his powerful speech, highlighted the formation of the South African-Russian Friendship Association, aimed at furthering the cooperative relations between the two nations. The association will be launched at the end of June.
Russian, Chinese and BRICS and economic development roles in South Africa
The celebration also emphasized the pivotal role of BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) in the global order and their contributions to economic development in South Africa. As a member of BRICS, South Africa has benefited from increased trade, investment, and development projects facilitated by this coalition. BRICS nations are committed to creating multipolar world dynamics, offering developing countries alternatives to Western-led economic models and reducing reliance on the US Dollar.
The meeting also highlighted Russia’s economic contributions to South Africa, noting in particular its significant investments in South Africa, including contributions to infrastructure development, energy projects, and more. The establishment of development banks and alternative financial systems within BRICS has enabled more flexible financing conditions for South African projects. These initiatives help drive economic growth and development, fostering closer economic ties and boosting South Africa’s strategic importance on the global stage.
It also noted China’s role in South Africa’s economic development. Representatives of the South African-Chinese community also emphasised the strong economic partnership between South Africa and China. China has been instrumental in various infrastructure projects and has significantly contributed to South Africa’s economic landscape through investments in manufacturing, mining, and technology sectors. This collaboration is a testament to the broader BRICS alliance’s success in fostering economic growth and development among its member countries,” Fransman said.
In conclusion, he said the 80th Anniversary Celebration of Victory Day was not just a remembrance of past victories but also a celebration of enduring international solidarity and cooperation. The event highlighted the crucial role of Russia in South Africa’s liberation, the importance of BRICS in fostering economic development, and the potential for future collaborations through the South African-Russian Friendship Association. Besides the distinguished guests like Fransman and Russian Consul General Aleksei Malenko, Calvyn Gilfellin, Chief Zenzile Khoisan, Igshaan Higgins, former South African Consul-General to Shanghai, China, Lassy Chiwayo, and representatives of the South African-Chinese community, as well as various leaders of the Khoi Committee, the Legal fraternity, business and struggle veterans attended the gathering. – @NewsSA_Online
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