Johannesburg: President Cyril Ramaphosa has emphasized the mutual benefits awaiting South Africa and the United States from enhancing collaborative efforts. The President conveyed this message to South Africans through his weekly newsletter following his visit to the US.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa, accompanied by Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola, engaged with US officials last week. The visit aimed to lay the groundwork for enhanced economic cooperation and address tensions arising from false narratives about violence in South Africa.
President Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of directly engaging with the US administration to dispel misinformation regarding purported violence against white farmers in South Africa. He provided an update on the nation’s progress and challenges as a democracy, referencing recent police statistics that showed a decrease in farm attacks. These statistics revealed that the majority of victims in recent attacks were African farm owners.
In addition to addressing these misconceptions, President Ramaphosa and US officials reached an agreement regarding the G20. The US will maintain an active role, including participation in the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, where South Africa will transition the G20 presidency to the US.
The President further stressed the overarching goal of the visit was to strengthen the strategic economic partnership, with the US being South Africa’s second-largest trading partner. He noted the significant potential to expand trade in sectors like gas, mining, agriculture, and nuclear products. The US’s role as a major investor, with over 600 companies operating in South Africa, underscores this potential.
Discussions also covered economic tariffs, leading to the establishment of an ‘economic cooperation channel’ to address tariffs and trade matters. The President described plans to explore new business opportunities and updated US officials on ongoing structural reforms aimed at improving business conditions and attracting investment.
The US State Department’s recent Investment Climate Summit recognized South Africa as an attractive investment hub, citing strengths in capital markets, manufacturing, stable institutions, and more. President Ramaphosa extended an invitation to President Trump to send a delegation to South Africa to further explore investment opportunities.
President Ramaphosa reaffirmed the steadfast cooperation between South Africa and the US, underscoring the significance of open dialogue. The successful working visit highlighted the bilateral relationship’s strength and the willingness of both nations to address challenges and foster mutual growth.