Can Mandela's former negotiator charm Donald Trump?

South Africa's president, Cyril Ramaphosa, faces tough challenges. He was the chief negotiator for Nelson Mandela's ANC in the 1990s. His upcoming meeting at the White House will test his charm.

Ramaphosa aims to improve South Africa's relationship with the US. His negotiating skills will be crucial in winning over President Donald Trump.

The White House has been quiet about the visit. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt did not provide details or confirm it.

In Washington, Ramaphosa emphasized trade relations. "We want a good trade deal," he said. He hopes to strengthen ties between the two countries.

Relations have been strained for months. Trump claimed that South Africa's Afrikaner community faces "genocide." This claim has been widely discredited but was supported by Elon Musk.

Tensions escalated after Ramaphosa signed a controversial land expropriation bill. This law allows the government to take land without compensation under certain conditions.

The Trump administration reacted negatively to this move. They were already upset over South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the ICJ.

In February, Trump suspended critical aid to South Africa. He also offered help for Afrikaners seeking refuge in the US.

South Africa’s ambassador, Ebrahim Rasool, was expelled after criticizing Trump. The US Secretary of State called Rasool a "race-baiting politician."

Last week, a group of Afrikaners arrived in the US, inflaming tensions further. Trump reiterated claims that white farmers are being killed and their land taken.

Political analyst Anthoni van Nieuwkerk called Ramaphosa’s trip a "high-risk strategy."

Ramaphosa’s spokesperson hoped for improved diplomatic relations from this visit. The delegation included four senior cabinet ministers but had little time to prepare.

They likely aim to discuss extending the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa). This act provides duty-free access for certain African goods to US markets.

South Africa is one of Agoa's largest exporters, generating $2.7 billion in revenue this year. There are concerns that Agoa may not be renewed later this year.

Magwenya stated they are ready to engage on new trade frameworks if necessary. He expressed hope for constructive discussions about souring relations with Washington.

Agricultural Minister John Steenhuisen is part of the delegation as well. His party criticizes ANC policies for leading to corruption and cronyism.

Regarding Israel’s alleged genocide against Palestinians, Magwenya acknowledged potential robust discussions ahead. However, he emphasized focusing on humanitarian efforts where both sides agree.

Trump recently acknowledged starvation issues in Gaza due to blockades on supplies there.

Van Nieuwkerk predicts two possible outcomes from this meeting: cordial interaction or emotional conflict over white genocide claims.

He warned that if Ramaphosa cannot assert South Africa's rights effectively, things could go poorly during their meeting with Trump.

He hopes Ramaphosa arrives with strong proposals and emphasizes negotiations should happen before public meetings begin.

Ramaphosa is known for his warmth and negotiation skills; he might find common ground through golf invitations during upcoming summits in November.

Prof Van Nieuwkerk noted Ramaphosa played a key role in ending apartheid due to his personality and style.

Dr Lubna Nadvi believes this face-to-face meeting can strengthen relationships and address misinformation influencing Trump's views.

It is vital for Ramaphosa’s team to assert South Africa’s sovereignty during discussions.

Magwenya stressed they would not approach the meeting as beggars.

While South Africa needs access to US markets, America also requires products from South Africa.

South Africa exports minerals like platinum and iron along with precious stones and fruit.

Its strategic location makes it attractive to American interests as well.

Van Nieuwkerk warned that failure could allow other players to undermine South Africa's role in Africa.

However, Magwenya clarified that this meeting is just a starting point toward resolving issues.

Regardless of its outcome, it represents an opportunity for normalizing relations between both nations.