Pretoria: President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa’s dedication to global diplomacy, emphasizing the critical nature of the upcoming G7 Leaders’ Summit as a platform for strengthening international partnerships and enhancing South Africa’s leadership role within the G20. During a media briefing at Sefako Makgatho Primary School in Saulsville, Pretoria, the President confirmed that South Africa received an official invitation from Canada, the current chair of the G7, to participate in the summit.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa expressed optimism about engaging with various G7 leaders during the summit. He highlighted the significance of such interactions in propagating South Africa’s objectives for the G20 presidency and the desired outcomes for the upcoming G20 summit scheduled for November.
The President outlined key bilateral meetings planned on the sidelines of the G7 summit, including engagements with the Chancellor of Germany, the Prime Minister of Canada, and the President of the United States, Donald Trump. He emphasized the opportunity to consolidate South Africa’s strategic goals in preparation for the G20 Leaders’ Summit.
Reflecting on his recent visit to Washington DC, President Ramaphosa addressed criticism of the trip, describing it as a strategic effort to reset relations with the United States, a crucial trading partner. He clarified that the visit was initiated by South Africa and was not a summons from President Trump, with whom he had a prior telephone conversation.
The President mentioned the ongoing engagement between South Africa’s Department of Trade and Industry and Competition and the Department of International Relations with their US counterparts. He stressed the importance of President Trump’s participation in the upcoming G20 Summit hosted by South Africa, noting that the US’s involvement is crucial for the summit’s effectiveness.
President Ramaphosa underscored the importance of repositioning South Africa in the global geopolitical landscape, stating the need for proactive engagement with countries across various regions, including Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and Europe. He emphasized South Africa’s commitment to addressing challenges and strengthening international relations.