Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on Monday that Russia and South Africa plan to develop bilateral cooperation in the energy sector and the exploration of natural resources.

On Monday morning, South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor received Lavrov in the administrative capital city of Pretoria for bilateral talks.

"Our governments and companies in both countries are all interested in furthering joint projects related to natural resources, energy… peaceful space exploration, infrastructure, hi-tech, smart cities," Lavrov told reporters at a press conference with South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor.  

The Russian diplomat added that adjustments in financial instruments and supply chains are required to enhance bilateral ties, noting that Russia is closely working with its partners to create new mechanisms that will shield from the "whims and arbitrariness of our Western colleagues."

"It is real. We have been working on it together with all of our partners who want to ensure fair cooperation and avoid falling victim to unfair competition practices," Lavrov said.

🇷🇺🇿🇦 Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov held talks with Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of #SouthAfrica Dr. Naledi Pandor

📍 Pretoria, January 23
#RussiaRSA #RussiaAfrica pic.twitter.com/7LI8VtdLmP

— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) January 23, 2023

On another note, the Russian diplomat spoke of the West's mixed reaction to joint naval drills initiated by Russia, China, and South Africa, saying he did not understand why they were a source of concern for the West. 

"As for naval exercises, I think there is nothing even to comment on. Three sovereign countries conduct exercises without violating any norms of international law. I don't understand how they can cause a 'mixed' reaction," Lavrov said, noting that the drills could cause such a reaction mainly from the US' side. 

"US colleagues believe that only they can conduct exercises around the world. Now they are actively engaged in naval exercises within the framework of the Indo-Pacific strategies around China, in the South China Sea, in the Taiwan Strait, and this does not cause any mixed reaction from anyone," he added.

🔴South Africa, Russia and China set to conduct military drills🔴

A multinational maritime exercise between these three countries termed Exercise MOSI will take place in Durban and Richards Bay areas of Kwa-Zulu Natal province over the period 17 to 27 February 2023. pic.twitter.com/L1uqkagUK1

— The Insight Factor (@insightfactor) January 19, 2023

The top diplomat highlighted that Russia "does not want any scandals and provocations" and that the naval exercises are transparent since all information has been provided.  

"We simply advocate for each country to have its own rights in the international system, as stipulated by the UN Charter," Lavrov concluded.

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