Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to maintaining and strengthening its long-standing diplomatic, economic, and political relationship with the United States, describing it as a “strategic and historic partner.”

Speaking during a Q&A session in the National Assembly, President Ramaphosa highlighted ongoing efforts to engage with the US government and key stakeholders to deepen relations between the two nations.

“South Africa maintains its active engagement with the United States through political, diplomatic, and economic channels,” he said.

Following the establishment of the Government of National Unity last year, senior officials, including the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and the Minister and Deputy Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, conducted official visits to Washington DC. Their engagements involved discussions with the US administration, members of Congress, business leaders, and academia to strengthen ties.

The President also noted his recent conversation with US President Donald Trump, following his election victory in November last year. “I had a telephone call with the President-Elect to congratulate him on his election and to reaffirm our commitment to strengthening relations between our two countries,” Ramaphosa stated.

As part of South Africa’s diplomatic efforts, Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool has been appointed for his second term as the country’s envoy to Washington DC. His mission, along with his team, is to engage with various US stakeholders and emphasize the importance of deepening economic, political, and cultural relations.

President Ramaphosa also addressed concerns over an Executive Order and recent statements by the US administration regarding South Africa’s domestic policies and foreign policy positions.

“We have expressed concern about the mischaracterisation of the situation in South Africa and certain of our laws and our foreign policy positions,” he said.

Despite these concerns, the President assured that South Africa will continue to engage with the US administration and other relevant stakeholders to provide clarity and restore the strong historical ties between the two nations.

The South African government remains committed to correcting any misperceptions and ensuring that the US-South Africa relationship remains mutually beneficial. With diplomatic efforts underway, Ramaphosa expressed confidence that the two nations will continue to work together to advance shared interests in trade, investment, and global cooperation.