These nations are the future of the world. They are the future economic powerhouses. So, if we’re going to make a difference in the world, we need to do it with those nations. And if South Africa is going to be the leader of that, then they need to be a part of Brics. And so, I think President Ramaphosa, as a man of peace, as a man who wants to see his country prosper, he needs to understand that the dollar is a strong currency. It’s the world’s currency. And so, when we’re talking about foreign policy, if you’re not going to be a part of the dollar, then you’re going to be left out of the conversation. And so, I think that’s where the challenge is going to be for President Ramaphosa.”
M&G: What would be your message to President Ramaphosa as he prepares to hand over the G20 presidency to the United States in November?
Mark Burns: “Well, I would say President Ramaphosa, you have an opportunity to stand side by side with the United States of America, the most powerful nation in the world. You have an opportunity to show the world that South Africa is a leader among nations. You have an opportunity to show the world that South Africa is not just another African nation that’s mired in conflict, that’s mired in poverty, that’s mired in corruption. You have an opportunity to show the world that you are a leader. And so, I would challenge President Ramaphosa to take that opportunity, to take that mantle, to take that responsibility, to be a leader among nations.”
Mark Burns’ visit to South Africa has sparked conversations about race, religion, politics, and foreign policy. His insights and perspectives shed light on the complexities of the issues facing the country and its relations with the United States. As the G20 presidency transitions from South Africa to the United States, it will be interesting to see how these two nations navigate their differences and find common ground on the global stage.
