South African president Ramaphosa meets with US congressional delegation
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa today, 21 February 2024, received for a visit from a bipartisan congressional delegation from the United States of America, in Tuynhuys, Cape Town. The delegation is visiting South Africa at the invitation of the Aspen Institute.
The President and the US congressional delegation discussed the importance of the relationship between South Africa and the US, which manifests in strong economic, political and social ties.
“Our relationship is characterised by mutual respect and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue even on issues where we may differ,” said President Ramaphosa.
The President further highlighted the support that the US has provided to South Africa over the years in the fight against HIV and AIDS. The PEPFAR programme has contributed significantly – and continues to contribute – to the remarkable progress South Africa has made to end HIV as a public health emergency.
President Ramaphosa emphasised the strength of bilateral relations as evidenced through several meetings and calls he has had with President Biden, official engagements between South African and US delegations which has allowed for a constructive exchange of views and further cemented the ties between the two countries.
The engagement also covered South Africa’s economic opportunities with a focus on the expansion of trade and investment ties. The African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) continues to present significant value to Africa’s industrialisation, integration and the diversification of the continent’s economies. AGOA provides a platform for US investors to participate in the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCTA).
On international relations, President Ramaphosa underscored South Africa’s commitment to promoting peace, security and development on the African continent and across the world. This includes South Africa’s non-aligned position that seeks to forge cordial relations with all countries and promote the resolution of conflict through dialogue.
The President emphasised the need for an inclusive negotiated settlement of the Israel-Palestinian conflict, and South Africa’s support for the legitimate aspirations of Palestinians to self-determination and statehood and of Israelis to peace and security.
“We continue to make the call for the release of hostages, an immediate ceasefire and the urgent provision of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza and meaningful negotiations towards a lasting solution,” said President Ramaphosa.
President Ramaphosa congratulated the delegation for the upcoming celebration of 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence in July 2026 as South Africa marks 30 years of freedom and democracy.
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