African National Congress (ANC) secretary-general Fikile Mbalula met with the US Ambassador to South Africa Reuben Brigety on Wednesday to discuss the country’s international relations policy. 

The meeting follows the widespread coverage of the US Ambassador’s assertion that South Africa sent arms and ammunition to Russia.

In the meeting, Mbalula said Brigety reiterated his apology to the party after his having made accusations of anti-American actions.

Apart from promulgating the Freedom Charter’s principle of peace and friendship, Mbalula confirmed the ANC’s international relations position as being informed by human rights, poverty eradication and economic development.

“These principles are all intertwined with our pursuit of long-term regional and continental peace and development,” he said.

The meeting also outlined the importance of the relationship between South Africa and the US.

“Whilst there may be points of divergence on certain issues, we remain committed to diplomatic engagements to resolve challenges on matters of common interests,” the party said.

A further bilateral meeting with the ANC’s National Executive Committee subcommittee on international relations will be held.