Malatsi in May published a draft policy directive, which he intends issuing to Icasa, urging the communications regulator to investigate how EEIPs, which are already used extensively in other sectors of the economy, could be applied in licensing for telecommunications. The move had been sharply criticised by parliamentary communications portfolio chair Khusela Diko.
Speaking in parliament on Thursday, Ramaphosa said EEIPs are an innovative alternative to equity ownership requirements and have allowed a number of multinational companies to participate in the economy while contributing to the country's transformation agenda.
"What Malatsi has announced is very much in line with our laws," Ramaphosa said in response to a question by Economic Freedom Fighters MP Meisie Kennedy.
"There is no violation - as far as he concerned and as far as I am concerned - with regard to our laws. And it is not specifically aimed at one or any company it is aimed at ensuring those who would want to participate in this process, be they local or from any other country, may find greater ease in doing so."
In a letter last week to trade, industry competition minister Parks Tau, Starlink dismissed "misleading claims" in sections of the media about its views on BEE and reiterated that it is keen to obtain an operating licence as soon as possible.