SOUTH Africa’s Foreign Minister, Ronald Lamola, said on Monday that the United States has yet to respond to diplomatic efforts seeking discussions on President Donald Trump’s executive order cutting financial aid to the country. The decision, reportedly linked to South Africa’s land reform policies and its genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ), has sparked concerns about future trade relations.
Speaking to Reuters in Johannesburg, Lamola confirmed that South Africa had attempted multiple engagements with the US government. ‘Despite all our attempts, through our mission in Washington to formally engage and communicate, we are still awaiting feedback and a response. We remain hopeful that they will find time to discuss this matter with us,’ he stated.
China pledges support amid diplomatic standoff
In the meantime, South Africa is working to strengthen bilateral relations with other global partners, including China. ‘China has expressed solidarity with us and has pledged support in terms of trade relations and other challenges we may face,’ Lamola said.
G20 meeting to proceed despite US objections
South Africa is set to host the G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg later this week. US officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have expressed opposition to South Africa’s G20 theme of Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability. However, Lamola insisted that the agenda remains unchanged. ‘The agenda will stand. All G20 nations previously agreed to it, and we will not be defocused by this issue with the US,’ he asserted.
Trade relations at risk?
While South Africa does not heavily rely on US aid, some analysts fear that its preferential trade status under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) may come under threat. The country has maintained a non-aligned stance in global geopolitical tensions, navigating between major powers, including the US, China, Russia, and the European Union.
South Africa stands firm on key policies
South Africa’s position on global issues, including its ICJ case against Israel and its land reform policies aimed at addressing historical injustices from the colonial era, remains steadfast. ‘These policies are non-negotiable,’ Lamola emphasised.
Future engagement with the US
Despite tensions, South Africa will continue efforts to engage the US ‘We will seek discussions, but we must also prepare for all scenarios,’ Lamola concluded.
This development underscores the shifting global alliances as South Africa balances its diplomatic engagements while maintaining its policy stance.
