South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has lauded Ethiopia’s historic role in his country’s liberation struggle, stating that the sacrifices made for South African freedom have allowed the bond between the two nations to take deep root. Speaking at the African Union summit, President Ramaphosa expressed his profound appreciation for Ethiopia’s unforgettable contribution to the fall of the apartheid regime, specifically highlighting the military training provided to Nelson Mandela.

The President recalled that the training received in Ethiopia by the late global icon served as the foundational moment that cemented the friendship between the two nations. This historic legacy has since evolved into a modern strategic partnership focusing on economic cooperation in trade, agriculture, and investment.

As the nation often revered as the mother of African freedom, Ethiopia’s unwavering support for continental liberation continues to provide a solid foundation for its diplomatic relations. The relationship stands as a testament to a shared past of struggle and a contemporary commitment to a prosperous, integrated future.