South Africa urged to negotiate peace with Russia

King Philippe of Belgium introduces South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to members of his cabinet during their state visit to South Africa

Belgium has called on South Africa to use its relations with Russia to help end the war in Ukraine.

This call was made during the visit of Belgian Foreign Minister Hadja Lahbib to Pretoria.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa responded by saying Pretoria continued to use the channel the country has with Russia "to discuss how the conflict can end".

Ms Lahbib is accompanied by King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium, this is their first five-day state visit to South Africa.

South Africa refused to condemn the invasion of Ukraine, which isolated Moscow on the international scene, saying it wanted to remain neutral and preferred dialogue to end the war.

The Belgian request came after the International Criminal Court (ICC) issued an arrest warrant for President Vladimir Putin last Friday.

South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor said the arrest warrant is obviously a matter of concern given that the country is due to host a BRICS summit in August which brings together Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.

South Africa, which is also a member of the ICC, will have to execute the arrest warrant if Mr. Putin, who has been invited to this summit, sets foot in the country.