President Cyril Ramaphosa Optimistic About Strengthened SA-US Relations Under Trump’s Leadership

President Cyril Ramaphosa, while attending the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland, expressed optimism about fostering stronger ties between South Africa and the United States under the renewed leadership of Donald Trump as the 47th US president.

Speaking to journalists, Ramaphosa described Trump as “a great deal-maker,” noting that their mutual approach to negotiations could benefit both nations. “President Trump is a great deal-maker, and so am I, so we will be able to work together,” he stated during a press briefing in snowy Switzerland.

Amid global reactions to Trump’s return to the White House, President Ramaphosa affirmed that South Africa’s relations with the US remain strong. Addressing concerns from journalists, he highlighted his conversation with Trump shortly after his election victory.

“No, I am not worried about our relations. I spoke to him soon after he was elected, congratulated him, and we both said we are looking forward to continuing our dealings and engagements,” said Ramaphosa.

The president further emphasized Pretoria’s vibrant ties with Washington, particularly on trade and economic matters. “We have good dealings with the United States on a trade level and an economic level, and we are hopeful that those relations will be retained. We will continue to have good relations too at a political level as we interact with President Trump.”

Ramaphosa addressed his absence from Trump’s inauguration, explaining that party commitments with the African National Congress (ANC) took precedence. “I was very busy with my party-political work. We were holding our strategy session, which is a very important session called a lekgotla. No ANC president ever stays away from that. So that took precedence,” he explained.

Despite not attending, Ramaphosa reiterated his confidence in maintaining a productive relationship with Trump, stating, “I know President Trump and I are going to continue either dealing together or meeting. So, it is not a train smash.”

As South Africa holds the G20 presidency for 2025, Ramaphosa underscored the opportunity to shape global discussions on economic growth, trade, climate change, and sustainable development. With the US set to assume the G20 presidency after South Africa, he highlighted the collaborative potential between the two nations.

“America is the next president of the G20, so we will be working together to prepare the United States for their own presidency. We will be having lots of discussions,” he noted.

Ramaphosa also recalled the shared values of freedom, democracy, and human rights that underpin the SA-US relationship. Last year, the two nations reaffirmed their commitment to deepen bilateral cooperation and look forward to continued progress leading up to the 15th Annual Bilateral Forum in 2025.

As Ramaphosa looks ahead, his optimism about strengthening ties with the US reflects South Africa’s commitment to leveraging international partnerships to address critical global challenges.

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