Strengthening economic and trade relations will be at the core of Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s working visit to Russia.

According to the Deputy President’s Office, the trip will focus on enhancing cooperation in key sectors, including agriculture, automotive, energy, and mining, as well as collaboration in science and technology.

The working visit set for 17-21 June in Moscow and St. Petersburg, will involve high-level engagements and activities focused on economic diplomacy.

In Moscow, Deputy President Mashatile will meet with Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin to discuss cooperation in the areas of economy, trade, and energy.

The Deputy President will meet with several high-ranking officials, including President Vladimir Putin, Valentina Matvienko, the Chairman of the Russian Federation Council, and Vyacheslav Volodin, the current Chairman of the State Duma, which is the lower house of the Russian Parliament.

While in Moscow, the Deputy President will lay a wreath at the memorial site honouring South Africa’s liberation heroes, John Beaver (JB) Marks and Moses Kotane. 

Following this, he will participate in the 28th St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF2025).

This year’s forum will be held from 19 to 21 June,  under the theme: “Shared Values: The Foundation of Growth in a Multipolar World.”

The Deputy President will take part in the plenary session of SPIEF2025 while he has also received an invitation to speak at the Russia-Africa Business Dialogue.

In addition, he is scheduled to deliver a public lecture at St. Petersburg State University on the topic: “South Africa’s G20 Presidency in a Rapidly Changing Geopolitical Environment.”

He will address attendees at the opening of the South African Trade and Investment Seminar.

“The St. Petersburg leg of the visit is expected to leverage on promoting South Africa’s trade relations and South Africa as an investment destination.” 

According to the Deputy President’s Office, this trip will be his first visit to Russia since he took office under the seventh administration. 

He will be accompanied by a delegation of Ministers and Deputy Ministers who are part of the Economic Sectors, Investment, Employment and Infrastructure Development Cabinet Cluster. –