Rome – President Cyril Ramaphosa is in Rome, Italy, for a working visit to the Holy See.
He arrived on Friday, 7 November 2025, in the morning at the Leonardo da Vinci Fiumicino International Airport, where he was received by SA Ambassador to Italy Nosipho Jezile, SA Ambassador to The Holy See Sello Moloto, and Italian Deputy Chief of Protocol Irene Castagnoli.
“South Africa and the Holy See have cordial bilateral relations, and the visit by President Ramaphosa serves as an opportunity to discuss a renewed focus on collaboration in humanitarian aid, climate justice, emergency response, and peace building,” stated Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa.
The Holy See has diplomatic ties with over 180 countries and observer status at major international bodies like the United Nations and holds significant global influence through its moral, religious, and diplomatic authority.
“South Africa and the Holy See have a long history of diplomatic relations that was formally established in 1994,” Magwenya said.
“South Africa values the warm and respectful relations it has enjoyed with the Holy See over the years.
“The meeting with His Holiness Pope Leo XIV is of particular significance as it represents South Africa’s first high-level engagement with the newly appointed Pontiff.
“His ascension to the papacy on 8 May 2025 provides an important opportunity to reaffirm and strengthen bilateral relations with the Holy See.”
Magwenya said the South African concept of Ubuntu, which emphasises interconnectedness, shared humanity, and humanity towards others, aligns with the Pope’s calls for a more compassionate, loving, peaceful, and inclusive global community.
President Ramaphosa is accompanied by his daughter, Keneilwe Ramaphosa, and International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola.
