South African golfer Ernie Els is preparing to accompany President Cyril Ramaphosa for a crucial meeting with US President Donald Trump at the White House on Wednesday. The goal of the meeting is to mend the strained relationship between the two countries, particularly after Trump’s actions of cutting aid to South Africa and making false accusations against Ramaphosa.
In an effort to appease Trump, Ramaphosa is offering concessions such as preferential access to mineral resources and gas deposits for the US, as well as opening up South Africa’s market to American agricultural companies. Additionally, there are talks of allowing Elon Musk, a South African-born entrepreneur critical of the government, to operate his Starlink satellite internet service in the country.
Ernie Els, a prominent South African golfer with four major championships under his belt, has been enlisted to join the delegation as a way to connect with Trump, who is known for his love of golf. By leveraging Els’ personal relationship with Trump, the hope is to facilitate a smoother dialogue between the two leaders.
The meeting is seen as a crucial opportunity for South Africa to rebuild its standing with the US, especially given recent diplomatic challenges. South Africa has been deeply troubled by Trump’s unfounded claims of a “genocide” against white farmers in the country, as well as other contentious issues such as its stance on international relations.
In preparation for the meeting, South Africa is considering various trade offers, including easing restrictions on US poultry and pork exports, and opening up opportunities for mining companies to develop critical minerals. The aim is to strike a balance in trade cooperation that benefits both countries.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding the meeting, Ramaphosa is known for his charm and negotiation skills, which will be put to the test in his interactions with Trump. The outcome of the meeting could have significant implications for South Africa’s economy and international relations.
As the delegation braces for a potentially confrontational encounter with Trump, they are strategizing on how to address sensitive issues such as the “genocide” claims and Musk’s criticisms. The hope is to navigate the meeting with diplomacy and tact, while also standing firm on key issues important to South Africa.
Overall, the meeting represents a pivotal moment for South Africa’s diplomatic relations, and the presence of figures like Ernie Els underscores the unconventional approaches being taken to mend fractured ties with the US.
