‘He’s not apprehensive’ – Ramaphosa ready for Trump showdown, says Magwenya

Ramaphosa

Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa is in Washington for a working visit and is set to meet US President Donald Trump.

The visit comes amid strained relations, particularly after the US granted asylum to 49 white South Africans based on false claims of racial persecution and “genocide,” which South Africa disputes.

The meeting aims to reset and strengthen bilateral ties, focusing on economic and trade relations.

Ramaphosa’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya, said the president is confident and not apprehensive, although some topics may spark robust discussions.

“He’s looking forward to it, he’s highly enthused, and we’re looking forward to a very successful meeting aimed at resetting the relationship between South Africa and the United States. He’s not apprehensive at all.

“We don’t think President Trump invited President Ramaphosa for that kind of treatment. There are issues of concern on the side of the US and on our side as well. It is possible that those issues may trigger a rather robust discussion, which is only the nature of these engagements. But we believe that the kind of courtesy that we are accustomed to, that heads of state extend to one another, will be in full display tomorrow,” Magwenya said.

Key agenda items include the resettlement of white South Africans, aid cuts, and global conflicts such as Ukraine and Gaza.

Ramaphosa will also discuss business opportunities for Elon Musk’s companies, including Starlink, despite prior licensing controversies.

This marks Trump’s first hosting of an African leader at the White House.

South Africa currently chairs the G20 and will hand over leadership to the US in November.

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