South Africa: President Ramaphosa to Undertake Working Visit to the U.S.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will visit the United States from May 19 to 22, 2025. The Presidency announced this working visit.

During his trip, President Ramaphosa will meet President Donald Trump. This meeting will take place at the White House in Washington, DC, on Wednesday.

The discussions will cover various bilateral, regional, and global issues. The Presidency stated that this engagement is highly anticipated.

This visit aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between South Africa and the United States.

The statement noted that it provides a chance to reset their relationship.

This visit follows a recent incident involving 49 Afrikaners leaving South Africa. They claimed they were victims of "genocide" and sought refugee status in the US.

The South African government has expressed serious concern about these claims. They stated that these assertions are unfounded and do not reflect reality.

President Ramaphosa emphasized that those individuals do not qualify for refugee status under international law. He explained they have not faced persecution based on race, ethnicity, religion, or political beliefs.

In a recent public panel discussion, he reaffirmed South Africa's commitment to human rights and social justice. He also mentioned a phone call with President Trump to clarify South Africa's position.

Ramaphosa noted that those leaving under such claims represent a small fringe group. They do not reflect broader South African society or its realities.

The United States is one of South Africa's key economic partners. Over 600 US companies operate in South Africa, highlighting strong economic ties between the two nations.

Further details about President Ramaphosa's visit will be shared by The Presidency soon.