Ramaphosa says SA will continue engaging the US despite new restrictions

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa affirmed his nation's commitment to maintaining engagement with the United States, despite new visa restrictions announced by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Speaking to journalists at an ANC Veterans League fundraising golf day in Johannesburg, Ramaphosa emphasized that South Africa will continue to protect its sovereignty and dignity in its interactions with Washington.

The U.S. restrictions target individuals responsible for land seizures, discrimination, and violence against minority groups in South Africa, though no specific names were disclosed. Ramaphosa stated that while the government had taken note of the new restrictions, the country remains open to continued engagement with the U.S. and all other nations.

He affirmed that South Africa will approach challenges in its relationships with other countries while maintaining its dignity and sovereignty, avoiding submission or disrespect. Ramaphosa highlighted that the U.S. remains a crucial market for South Africa, and both nations have products they need from one another. He noted that discussions between South Africa and the U.S. on trade and tariff issues have been ongoing, with both sides providing responses to certain concerns.

When asked about the impact of the latest visa restrictions on these talks, Ramaphosa acknowledged he couldn't explain the move, stating that only the U.S. could provide clarification on the reasoning behind the policy. Despite the challenges, Ramaphosa reaffirmed South Africa's willingness to negotiate with the U.S. to resolve issues in their relationship, emphasizing that both countries trade with each other and can find mutually beneficial solutions.