Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa has affirmed that South Africa’s upcoming talks with US President Donald Trump will focus on key bilateral issues such as trade, diplomacy, and economic relations, despite recent tensions.
Speaking after an ANC event in Kimberley on Friday, Ramaphosa emphasised a firm, business-like approach.
“We are not going to be distracted by anything.
“We will just focus on what is important for our country,” he said.
President @CyrilRamaphosa spoke to members of the media earlier today ahead of his working visit to the United States to meet with President Trump. pic.twitter.com/hJpQPLLO3y
— The Presidency 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) May 17, 2025
He also dismissed false claims by the Trump administration about white genocide in South Africa and insisted these narratives do not reflect the country’s identity or values.
“We are a sovereign state and we will be conducting our discussions in a business-like manner, representing the interests of our country,” he said.
“Every South African knows and agrees that there’s no genocide here.
The false narratives about a genocide are not a reflection of who we are as a nation and during our working visit to the U.S. we will be advancing a proudly South African message. pic.twitter.com/x1MI8N76bt
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) May 16, 2025
“And the false stories that have been perpetrated or that have been vended around, we all know are not true. They are not a reflection of who we are.”
The delegation, including Ministers Ronald Lamola, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, and DA leader John Steenhuisen, aims to address US tariffs on South African goods and reaffirm South Africa’s commitment to inclusive development and pragmatic diplomacy.
Relations between South Africa and the US have deteriorated since President Donald Trump’s return to the White House.
Trump has openly criticised Ramaphosa’s administration, and in February, he signed an executive order halting all US funding to South Africa.
The move was in response to South Africa’s land reform policies and its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
