Ramaphosa’s Rome Visit Strengthens South Africa’s Ties with Vatican

President Cyril Ramaphosa’s visit to the Vatican on Friday marked a historic moment in South Africa’s diplomatic relations with the Holy See. The President met with Pope Leo XIV, who was elected in May, for a series of bilateral talks aimed at deepening collaboration on global challenges such as climate justice, peace-building, and humanitarian aid.

Accompanied by his daughter Keneilwe Ramaphosa and Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola, the President underscored South Africa’s commitment to moral leadership and social justice on the international stage.

Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said the meeting reaffirmed the long-standing cordial relationship between South Africa and the Holy See. “The visit serves as an opportunity to strengthen cooperation in humanitarian assistance, climate response, and peace efforts,” he said.

The discussions also touched on joint initiatives to enhance emergency relief programmes and promote ethical global governance. According to Magwenya, the meeting carried symbolic weight as the first between President Ramaphosa and the new pontiff, signalling a renewed era of partnership rooted in shared human values.

Pope Leo XIV’s emphasis on inclusion and environmental stewardship aligns with South Africa’s own stance on sustainable development and conflict resolution. For Pretoria, the engagement reflects an expanding diplomatic vision that embraces faith institutions as allies in tackling global inequalities and crises.