South African President Cyril Ramaphosa departed for the United States on Sunday night, launching a diplomatic effort aimed at mending tensions with the administration of President Donald Trump.
The working visit, scheduled from 19-22 May, includes a high-profile meeting at the White House where the two leaders are expected to address bilateral, regional, and global issues of mutual concern.
Ramaphosa’s visit comes amid a period of strained relations between Pretoria and Washington.
Tensions have arisen over racism allegations by the US against the South African government, as well as differing positions on key geopolitical matters.
In an executive order in February, Trump accused South Africa’s government of racial discrimination against Afrikaners – descendants of Dutch settlers – by pursuing anti-white policies through affirmative action laws and a new land expropriation law.
The Pretoria authorities, however, say those claims are based on misinformation and there is no racism against Afrikaners and no land has been expropriated.
The US has also expressed dissatisfaction with Pretoria’s approach to foreign policy, particularly its engagement with China and Russia.
Despite these challenges, Ramaphosa is expected to use the visit as an opportunity to reinforce South Africa’s strategic importance as a partner for economic cooperation, trade and security in Africa.
The two leaders are anticipated to discuss investment opportunities, trade agreements and efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties.
Historically, South Africa and the US have maintained a complex but vital relationship, shaped by moments of collaboration and disagreement.
JN/APA