SA opts for quiet diplomacy over impossible mission to Washington – The Mail & Guardian

Last updated: February 17, 2025 8:59 am

ANH Team

“I have a lot of friends in South Africa, but it’s a very dangerous situation and a very troubling situation,” he added. “We’ll see how that all works out. But it’s a very sad situation.”

Trump’s comments have sparked outrage and condemnation from South African officials, who have called his statements baseless and inflammatory. They have reiterated that the government is committed to addressing historical injustices through land reform and reconciliation.

Despite the challenges posed by Trump’s rhetoric, South Africa remains determined to engage constructively with the international community and pursue its development agenda. The upcoming G20 meetings present an opportunity for the country to showcase its leadership and commitment to multilateral cooperation.

As preparations for the summits continue, Minister Lamola and his team are working tirelessly to build alliances and promote South Africa’s interests on the global stage. They are focused on advancing an agenda that addresses pressing global issues such as underdevelopment, inequality, and climate change.

While the road ahead may be fraught with challenges, South Africa remains optimistic about its prospects for meaningful engagement and cooperation with the international community. The country’s resilience and commitment to inclusive development will be on full display at the G20 meetings, where it aims to make a positive impact and contribute to a more just and equitable world.

As the world watches and waits to see how the events unfold, South Africa stands firm in its resolve to navigate the turbulent waters of global politics with grace and diplomacy. The country’s leaders are determined to uphold its values and principles, even in the face of adversity and hostility from powerful nations like the United States.

Ultimately, South Africa’s participation in the G20 meetings will be a test of its diplomatic skill and strategic vision. The country’s ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders and advance its interests will be crucial in shaping the outcomes of the summits and securing its place on the world stage.

As the countdown to the G20 meetings begins, all eyes are on South Africa as it prepares to demonstrate its leadership and commitment to a better future for all. The country’s journey towards a more just and equitable world continues, despite the challenges and obstacles that lie ahead.

With determination and perseverance, South Africa is poised to make a significant impact at the G20 meetings and reaffirm its place as a respected member of the global community.

AgriSA chief executive Johann Kotze recently spoke out against the dangers of President Trump’s false claims about Afrikaner dispossession. In an interview with Bloomberg, Kotze emphasized that Trump’s fiction is not only threatening the economic success of organized farming in South Africa but also fueling racial tension. He expressed concerns about the radicalism that has emerged following Trump’s statement, which is exacerbating hatred and division within the country.

In response to Trump’s remarks, organizations like Solidarity and the Institute for Race Relations have expressed schadenfreude at the diplomatic fallout. They have called on President Ramaphosa to reconsider all forms of racial redress. However, some industry leaders have suggested that the government may have played a role in escalating the crisis.

The Democratic Alliance has even taken legal action to challenge the Expropriation Act, further complicating Ramaphosa’s efforts to convey a clear message to Washington. Despite diplomatic efforts and appeals from business leaders, there are no feasible concessions that South Africa can make to appease Trump. His attack on racial redress is seen as a pretext and a dog whistle to his white supremacist supporters.

Furthermore, the suggestion of rethinking South Africa’s position on Israel while a genocide case is pending before the International Court of Justice is not a viable option. Such a move would betray the country’s principles and historic allegiance to Palestine. It would also undermine Ramaphosa’s credibility as he advocates for a rules-based international order on the global stage.

In conclusion, the diplomatic tension between South Africa and the United States is complex and multifaceted. Ramaphosa faces challenges in navigating this delicate situation while upholding the country’s values and interests. The fallout from Trump’s remarks underscores the importance of diplomacy and strategic decision-making in international relations.