South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended an invitation to U.S. President-elect Donald Trump for a state visit during their interaction at the recent G20 Summit. Ramaphosa made the announcement while officially launching South Africa’s G20 Presidency during a media briefing at Parliament.
South Africa has assumed the year-long rotational G20 Presidency from Brazil and will hand it over to the United States next year.
President Trump, in a recent post on X (formerly Twitter), urged BRICS nations to pledge against establishing a currency that could rival the U.S. dollar. He also reiterated threats to impose a 100% tariff levy on certain imports.
While avoiding direct comments on Trump’s statements, Ramaphosa expressed a willingness to engage with the President-elect on various matters. He even humorously suggested the possibility of discussing global issues over a round of golf.
“If he has time—he has a very busy schedule—and we can go hit some balls, I’d be happy to point him in the right direction. He might find a lot of competition on the golf course,” Ramaphosa quipped.
Addressing concerns about South Africa’s developmental goals being overshadowed by the U.S. during its upcoming G20 Presidency, Ramaphosa remained confident. He emphasized the continuity and forward momentum of G20 initiatives in addressing global challenges.
“What we have found is that there has always been forward movement in dealing with existential issues affecting all parts of the world. I am least concerned that what has been decided here will be diluted,” Ramaphosa stated.
Meanwhile, South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has expressed readiness to engage with the incoming U.S. administration. Responding to Trump’s comments on BRICS, department spokesperson Chrispin Phiri clarified misconceptions surrounding the bloc’s stance on a unified currency.
“There is no BRICS currency or any formal work towards one. The idea is for BRICS nations to trade in their local currencies, respecting each country’s sovereignty,” Phiri explained.
As South Africa navigates its G20 Presidency, it remains focused on fostering cooperation among nations in the global south while preparing for a smooth transition to the United States next year.
