Trump to Attend G20 Summit in Johannesburg as US Set to Take Over G20 Presidency

President Donald Trump has confirmed his attendance at the G20 Leaders’ Summit set to take place in Johannesburg later this year, according to President Cyril Ramaphosa. The announcement signals renewed diplomatic engagement between the US and South Africa as the global economic forum prepares for a leadership transition.

South Africa will officially hand over the G20 presidency to the United States at this year’s summit—an event expected to shape global trade and investment conversations moving forward.

A Visit Marked by Tensions and Progress

Ramaphosa recently returned from a high-stakes visit to Washington, D.C., where he met with US officials, including President Trump, to ease ongoing tensions. While one moment during the trip captured headlines—Trump playing a controversial video alleging violence against white South Africans—the broader aim of the visit, Ramaphosa emphasized, was economic.

“The main goal was to deepen our strategic economic partnership with the US, our second-largest trading partner,” Ramaphosa said in his weekly newsletter.

Investment and Trade Take Center Stage

During the talks, both governments discussed ways to grow bilateral investment and expand trade. Ramaphosa highlighted structural reforms underway in South Africa aimed at improving the ease of doing business and creating a more investor-friendly environment.

The President also extended an invitation for the US to send both government and private sector delegations to South Africa to explore new business opportunities.

According to the latest US State Department Investment Climate Statement, South Africa remains an attractive destination thanks to its developed legal systems, robust capital markets, and diversified industrial base.

Rebuilding Trust and Opening Communication

Ramaphosa stressed the importance of rebuilding trust and re-establishing open communication channels between the two nations. He expressed optimism that this renewed engagement would lead to meaningful collaboration.

“We are pleased that our visit to Washington established a basis for greater engagement and cooperation. Our two countries have everything to gain from working more closely together,” he wrote.

A Call for Unity at Home

In closing, Ramaphosa turned his attention inward, highlighting the importance of addressing domestic issues like crime and unemployment. These, he said, remain critical for boosting investor confidence and economic growth.

“To create jobs and attract the investment our country needs, we must work together—government, business, labour and broader society—to overcome our internal challenges,” he urged.

{Source: Jacarandafm}

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