SA's naval drills with Russia, China spark fears of financial fallout

Military exercises with BRICS nations raise economic concerns for South Africa

- THAMI MAGUBANE

THE joint military exercises planned to take place off the coast of South Africa this weekend could cause the country further financial turmoil by “irritating” its key trading partners.

Military experts have warned that while the exercises are unlikely to provoke a mailtary reaction from countries like the USA, they could, however, trigger an even harsher financial response.

The naval exercises are planned with Russia, China, and Iran. They have been labelled as BRICS Plus, although India and Brazil are not taking part. The opening ceremony is on January 10.

The relationship between South Africa and the USA is at its lowest ebb since the return of Donald Trump as US president. The two countries have been at loggerheads, with the USA imposing tariffs of 30% on South Africa.

Chris Hattingh, DA spokesperson on Defence and Military Veterans, said a China-led naval exercise involving foreign navies in South Africa could undermine the country’s nonaligned stance.“Hosting and training with such forces cannot be described as neutral or nonaligned. It isa political choice, whether the government admits it or not. South Africa’ policy of nonalignment is losing credibility because our words and actions no longer match,’ he added.