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6h ago

Ramaphosa Arrives in Washington to Reset U.S.–South Africa Relations

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa begins a pivotal visit aimed at addressing U.S. sanctions, trade tensions, and economic cooperation, with a focus on Musk-linked business opportunities.

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South African President Cyril Ramaphosa speaks as he attends a panel at the Africa CEO Forum in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, May 12, 2025. REUTERS/Luc Gnago/File Photo

Overview

  • President Cyril Ramaphosa landed in Washington on May 19, leading a delegation to negotiate a reset in U.S.–South Africa relations after months of escalating tensions.
  • Key priorities include securing a new bilateral trade agreement to replace AGOA preferences and mitigating U.S. tariffs that threaten South African exports and jobs.
  • Discussions are expected to explore business opportunities for Elon Musk’s Tesla and Starlink, including potential tariff reductions and licensing agreements.
  • Ramaphosa aims to counter U.S. claims of racial discrimination and 'white genocide,' asserting there is no evidence of such persecution in South Africa.
  • The visit sets the stage for a May 21 meeting with President Trump, where aid reinstatement, trade cooperation, and geopolitical alignment will be central topics.