South Africa sees Russia as a valued ally, President Cyril Ramaphosa said at a bilateral meeting with Russia's Vladimir Putin on Tuesday, on the eve of the BRICS summit of emerging economies that will take place in the Russian city of Kazan.

In the meeting with Putin, Ramaphosa communicated the priorities of the seventh administration, highlighting the strategic importance of the Russian Federation to South Africa, and exchanged views with Putin on issues of mutual interest.

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa said on Tuesday he considered Moscow a “valued ally” and friend during talks with Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin at the BRICS summit in Kazan. Alliance of nations Leaders from two dozen countries are expected to visit Russia for the three-day gathering,

Vladimir Putin met with President of the Republic of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa on the sidelines of the BRICS Summit in Kazan.

Even though South Africa and Russia don't share cultural or linguistic ties, their relationship remains surprisingly strong, a bond that has left many observers and Western governments puzzled for years.