Russia Day Celebrated in Pretoria Strengthening South Africa–Russia Ties
By Anisha Pemjee - TDS
13 June 2025
Russia Day was celebrated in Pretoria with a cultural evening that brought together diplomats, government officials, and friends of Russia. The event, hosted by the Embassy of the Russian Federation in South Africa, reflected the deepening relationship between the two countries and their shared commitment to global cooperation.
Guests were welcomed with a unique blend of Russian and South African traditions. The African Union Choir from Soweto opened the evening with stirring a cappella renditions of both national anthems. The Lozhkari, a folk instrumental ensemble from the Russian School in Pretoria, provided musical entertainment for the evening. Russian vodka, South African sherry and wine, along with warm, traditional dishes from both nations, were served to guests gathered on a crisp Highveld evening.
In his address, Ambassador Roman Ambarov marked the occasion by reflecting on Russia’s history and its vision for the future.
"Today, we celebrate more than a thousand years of Russia’s independent statehood," he said. "We celebrate a centuries-old tradition of coexistence of different ethnic, religious, and linguistic groups on one common territory stretching from the Baltic Sea to the Pacific Ocean."
Ambassador Ambarov highlighted Russia’s independent foreign policy and commitment to a multipolar world, stating that Moscow remains focused on maintaining global balance and working toward a more equitable international system.
He emphasized the continued growth of the bilateral partnership between Russia and South Africa, describing it as strong across political, economic, and social sectors. "We maintain both high-level and regular working contacts," said Ambarov. "Traditionally, we have good political coordination in multilateral bodies like the United Nations, BRICS, and other fora. Russia has extended its full support for the South African presidency in the G20."
He closed his remarks by thanking the performers and raising a toast to South Africa, its people, and the friendship shared between the two nations.
Representing the South African government, Mpho Hlabela-Mngxitama, Deputy Director General at the Department of Social Development, congratulated Russia on its successful hosting of the BRICS Summit in Kazan and the Russia - Africa Ministerial Meeting which was held in Sochi in 2024, calling them key events that reflect Russia’s active and constructive engagements on the global stage.
"Russia remains a key strategic partner for South Africa," said Hlabela-Mngxitama. "South Africa remains committed to the historical and political connections that bind the two nations amidst respect and mutual understanding."
She referred to the strength of the diplomatic relationship and the cooperation across a wide range of sectors, including ongoing police training initiatives and collaboration in nuclear medical isotopes. She also pointed to future opportunities in areas such as tourism, defence, energy, agriculture, cybersecurity and artificial intelligence.
"2025 is a significant year for South Africa as it is presiding over the G20, the first time it is being held on the African continent. We thank Russia for its continued support for our G20 presidency," she said.
Russia Day in Pretoria once again served as a reminder of the long-standing relationship between South Africa and Russia, grounded in mutual respect and cooperation.