Russian Embassy honours SA Navy Chief Monde Lobese, elevating Pretoria-Moscow ties
The Russian Federation’s embassy in South Africa has hosted an award ceremony to honour Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, Chief of the South African Navy.
During the prestigious ceremony, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to South Africa Roman Ambarov conferred a medal on Lobese.
The medal was awarded to Admiral Lobese “for strengthening military cooperation through dedication and service that has significantly contributed to the development of partnership and mutual trust” between the friendly nations and their armed forces.
In his speech, Ambassador Ambarov remarked that the award was more than simply a symbol of personal achievement but also a demonstration that the contribution of a single individual can build entire states, bring societies closer together, and foster an atmosphere of trust, which is critical in today’s world.
He further stated that the award should serve as a sign of acknowledgement, respect, and support for progress and success between the two countries.
In receiving the honour, Vice Admiral Lobese expressed gratitude to the Russian government, noting that the award symbolised not only his personal commitment but also the dedication of all South African naval personnel.
He emphasised that the medal represents mutual trust, friendship, and cooperation between the two navies, while also reflecting broader BRICS organisation and international solidarity.
Reflecting on his own formative years of military training in the former USSR (1987–1991), Lobese credited this experience as instrumental in shaping his naval career, eventually leading to his appointment as the third Chief of the South African Navy, following the integration of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
Lobese pointed out the importance of military partnerships in advancing global peace and security, highlighting the value of joint exercises, training, and exchanges between South Africa and Russia.
According to Lobese, such collaboration fosters not only operational readiness but also enduring friendships between sailors of both nations.
Addressing recent challenges surrounding a port visit by a Russian Navy training ship to Cape Town, the Navy Chief assured Russian authorities that measures were being taken to prevent similar incidents.
Lobese invited Russian vessels to make use of South Africa’s Simon’s Town and Durban naval bases for future visits, and confirmed that Russian ships will be welcomed in November during the upcoming BRICS Maritime Exercise.
The SA Navy has a longstanding mutually beneficial relationship with the Russian Navy through the BRICS nations, which often translates into bilateral exercises and skills exchange programmes. These engagements demonstrate the strong naval bond between the two navies.
During the awarding ceremony, Lobese was accompanied by his wife, Rear Admiral Nkomonde, Rear Admirals Du Toit and Bongco, Captains Pieterse, Mahloana, Magonono and Dulamo among others.
Concluding his remarks, Lobese reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to strengthening naval cooperation with Russia, envisioning a future built on respect, security, and shared objectives.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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