South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is actively pursuing a meeting with US President Donald Trump as part of efforts to repair strained relations between the two nations following recent aid cuts and escalating tensions.
During a business conference in Johannesburg on Thursday, Ramaphosa expressed his desire for improved diplomatic ties after Trump’s executive order targeting South Africa’s land reform policies.
He noted the importance of reaching “a meaningful deal” with the US to address various issues impacting bilateral relations.
“We want to go and do a meaningful deal with the United States on a whole range of issues,” Ramaphosa stated, indicating his positive inclination towards fostering a constructive relationship with Trump.
He defended South Africa’s land reform initiative, asserting that it is constitutional and aimed at rectifying historical injustices from apartheid.
He refuted claims that current laws allow for arbitrary land seizures, assuring that expropriation would be conducted fairly.
This outreach follows Trump’s decision to cut nearly $440 million in assistance to South Africa due to concerns over its land policies and international legal positions, including Pretoria’s accusations against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
The US is one of South Africa’s largest investors, with over 600 American companies operating within its borders.
JN/APA