President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to meet with US President Donald Trump on Wednesday amid escalating diplomatic tensions between the two countries. The meeting comes after three months of strained relations, triggered by Trump’s executive order suspending all aid to South Africa in response to the country’s policies of racial redress.
Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, highlighted that the agenda for the meeting includes South Africa’s upcoming presidency of the G20 and addressing the criticisms from the Trump administration regarding the country’s racial redress policies. Ramaphosa intends to extend an invitation to Trump to attend the G20 leaders’ summit in Johannesburg later this year, despite Trump’s hesitance due to his concerns about land expropriation and alleged persecution of white settlers.
The South African government has dismissed Trump’s claims as misinformation and propaganda, emphasizing that there is no persecution of any race group in the country. The visit to the US follows the arrival of 49 South Africans who were granted asylum by Trump under special circumstances for alleged victims of persecution.
In an effort to strengthen trade ties with the US, Ramaphosa is accompanied by a delegation of ministers, including International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola, Agriculture Minister John Steenhuisen, and Trade, Industry, and Competition Minister Parks Tau. The delegation aims to present a bilateral trade pact to the US during the visit, as well as address the potential expansion of the Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa).
The appointment of former deputy finance minister Mcebisi Jonas as a special envoy to the US signals South Africa’s commitment to maintaining crucial trade relationships with the US. Jonas’s role is pivotal in securing trade agreements and ensuring South Africa’s inclusion in future trade initiatives.
Despite the diplomatic tensions and challenges, Ramaphosa remains optimistic about the meeting with Trump and hopes to demonstrate the progress and unity within South Africa. The visit serves as an opportunity to engage in constructive dialogue and dispel any misconceptions about the country’s policies and practices.
Overall, the meeting between Ramaphosa and Trump presents a significant opportunity for both leaders to address key issues, strengthen bilateral relations, and pave the way for future cooperation between South Africa and the US.
