By Thabo Mosia
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his congratulations to Donald Trump on his victory in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, affirming South Africa’s commitment to a “close and mutually beneficial partnership” with the United States. Ramaphosa’s message of goodwill reflects South Africa’s emphasis on maintaining strong diplomatic relations with the U.S. as both nations prepare for major leadership roles in the G20. South Africa will assume the presidency of the G20 in 2025, followed by the U.S. in 2026, a sequence that Ramaphosa sees as an opportunity for “close collaboration” between the two countries on global issues.
Trump’s Return Sparks Global Reactions
Donald Trump’s return to the White House has captured international attention, with leaders from around the world sending their congratulations. This victory marks Trump’s second term as president, after a heated electoral contest that engaged voters and observers worldwide. In Africa, leaders like Zimbabwe’s President Emmerson Mnangagwa expressed their support, emphasising hopes for a future of cooperation with Trump’s America.
President Mnangagwa congratulated Trump, calling him a “leader who speaks for the people,” and stated that Zimbabwe stands ready to work with the American administration to foster prosperity and peace. Leaders from other continents, including France’s President Emmanuel Macron, El Salvador’s President Nayib Bukele, and India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi, also offered their congratulations, highlighting Trump’s “historic” victory and expressing optimism about working together for peace and economic growth.
Ramaphosa’s Statement Highlights Key Areas of U.S.-South Africa Cooperation
In his statement, President Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of the relationship between South Africa and the United States, underlining the two nations’ cooperation in areas such as trade, health, and global security. South Africa is a key trade partner for the U.S. within Africa, and the economic relationship between the two countries plays a critical role in job creation and growth within both economies.
Ramaphosa expressed his eagerness to build on this foundation by working closely with the U.S. under Trump’s leadership, particularly as South Africa prepares for its G20 presidency in 2025. He views this period as an opportunity to address pressing global challenges, such as economic stability, climate change, and health crises, where collaborative action between the two countries could yield significant impact.
“South Africa is committed to maintaining a close and mutually beneficial partnership with the United States,” said Ramaphosa. “Our collaboration across various domains will contribute to a more peaceful and prosperous world.”
A Shared Vision for G20 Leadership
Ramaphosa’s message also highlighted the significance of South Africa and the United States holding consecutive G20 presidencies. The G20, which comprises major world economies, plays a vital role in steering global economic policy, fostering sustainable development, and addressing international crises. With South Africa assuming the presidency in 2025 and the U.S. following in 2026, Ramaphosa believes this succession offers a unique opportunity for continuity and aligned leadership on the global stage.
The South African president stated that the G20 partnership with the U.S. would focus on solutions for global inequality, financial stability, and inclusive growth. He noted that collaboration with the U.S. would be particularly relevant for Africa’s economic agenda, as South Africa represents African interests within the G20 framework.
Africa and the U.S.: A Strengthened Diplomatic Relationship
Ramaphosa’s congratulatory message reflects broader diplomatic interests in fostering a productive relationship with the U.S. Trump’s return to the presidency has stirred discussions on how his administration’s policies might impact Africa, especially in areas such as trade, security, and health. The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), a U.S. policy providing duty-free access for African exports to the U.S., is one area where South African stakeholders are keenly watching for potential shifts in Trump’s policy approach.
During Trump’s first term, the U.S.-Africa relationship saw both challenges and advances. While some African leaders expressed concerns about certain policies, others appreciated Trump’s focus on building bilateral trade relationships and his administration’s support for anti-terrorism efforts in Africa. Ramaphosa’s message signals an openness to deepening ties with Trump’s administration, focusing on mutual benefits and the potential for addressing global challenges together.
Global Leaders Rally Behind Trump
As news of Trump’s victory spread, world leaders, including Macron, Bukele, Modi, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, shared their own messages of congratulations. Macron, who previously worked with Trump during his first term, said he was “ready to work together as we did for four years” and expressed a desire to build a peaceful and prosperous future through shared convictions and mutual respect.
In a notable show of solidarity, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Trump’s leadership, calling him a “friend” and underscoring India’s commitment to strengthening the Comprehensive Global and Strategic Partnership with the U.S. Zelensky’s message also carried a strong tone of hope, acknowledging Trump’s “peace through strength” approach to global affairs as essential for achieving “just peace in Ukraine.”
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu extended one of the most enthusiastic congratulations, calling Trump’s return “history’s greatest comeback” and expressing optimism for a strengthened alliance between the U.S. and Israel.
U.S.-South Africa Relations in the Context of Global Dynamics
As South Africa prepares for its G20 presidency and looks to work with Trump’s U.S., the future of U.S.-South Africa relations appears promising. The two countries share a history of partnership, and South Africa plays a significant role in regional peace and security efforts in Africa. Ramaphosa’s message of cooperation aligns with his administration’s focus on strengthening ties with influential global players and ensuring that South Africa remains an active participant on the world stage.
Analysts suggest that Ramaphosa’s warm message to Trump reflects South Africa’s pragmatic approach to diplomacy, recognising that close ties with the U.S. could bring mutual benefits. The South African government has previously worked with U.S. agencies on health initiatives, including the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has provided essential support for HIV/AIDS treatment and prevention in South Africa.
Anticipated Areas of Cooperation Under Trump’s Leadership
With Trump back in office, several key areas of cooperation are anticipated between the U.S. and South Africa:
1. Trade and Economic Growth: Trade between the two nations is a cornerstone of their relationship, with AGOA continuing to provide African exporters with access to U.S. markets. South Africa, as one of the leading beneficiaries of AGOA, will seek to maintain and expand trade agreements, focusing on growth in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, and technology.
2. Health Initiatives: The U.S. has long been a partner in health initiatives in South Africa, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Trump’s administration is expected to continue supporting health programs, especially as South Africa continues to tackle public health challenges.
3. Security Cooperation: Security and anti-terrorism initiatives are critical components of U.S.-South Africa relations. Trump’s first term included collaborations aimed at enhancing security across the African continent, and South Africa anticipates a continuation of these efforts, particularly in the fight against terrorism and organised crime.
4. Climate and Energy Policy: While climate policy has been a point of contention in Trump’s past administration, South Africa may seek areas of compromise that address energy needs and environmental protection. Ramaphosa’s administration has committed to reducing carbon emissions and fostering sustainable development, a topic likely to feature in their dialogues.
5. G20 and Multilateral Cooperation: As both countries prepare for back-to-back G20 presidencies, Ramaphosa and Trump’s administrations are likely to collaborate closely on global issues, such as financial stability, climate action, and sustainable development.Download Here:
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