Vincent Magwenya , spokesperson for the presidency confirms that no official delegation has been sent to Washington, citing vacancies in the Trump administration and the need for meaningful engagements at the right time.
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Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson of the presidency, has clarified the government’s stance on relations with the United States (US), confirming that no official delegation has been sent to Washington to mend ties.
In an interview on Newzroom Afrika, Magwenya emphasised that the government remains committed to building a mutually beneficial relationship with the US, but stressed that the timing for such a delegation is not ideal at the moment.
Magwenya stated: "Unfortunately, there is no delegation that has been dispatched by the president nor by the government."
This follows recent reports claiming South Africa had sent a delegation to the US to improve diplomatic relations with the US President Donald Trump’s administration.
Magwenya pointed out that vacancies within the Trump administration, particularly in positions related to African affairs, make it an unfavorable time for such a visit.
"There are still vacancies within the Trump administration in the areas of decision-making and influence that will normally interface with us," Magwenya explained.
He also addressed concerns about the absence of engagement with the US, stating that while the government remains open to discussions, "rushing to send a delegation when they will not be able to meet their counterparts and hold meaningful discussions will be counterproductive at this stage."
When the delegation is eventually sent, Magwenya emphasised that it will be a high-level delegation, involving ministers from various sectors, particularly those dealing with trade and diplomacy.
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Moreover, Magwenya dismissed speculation about former International Relations Minister Naledi Pandor’s visit to Washington, stating, "I’m not aware of the former minister being present in Washington in a capacity that will be representative of the government."
Magwenya also addressed concerns over the influence of groups like AfriForum and Solidarity in the US, saying the South African government is not worried by such efforts.
"When the president does send a delegation to Washington, it will be a high-level delegation... from all parties represented within the GNU," he said.
Regarding future engagements, Magwenya expressed confidence that President Cyril Ramaphosa and US President Trump will meet at the appropriate time, noting: "There will be discussions at higher levels of leadership, from both countries, with respect to what we continue to see as a strategic relationship between the US and South Africa."
On a broader global scale, Magwenya reaffirmed South Africa’s position regarding its longstanding relationship with Russia and ongoing efforts to reset ties with the US. "We have our own bilateral relationship with Russia," he said, while reiterating South Africa’s diplomatic efforts to rebuild relations with the US using "backdoor channels."
South Africa is preparing to welcome Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on April 10, 2025. Magwenya highlighted that the visit is part of President Ramaphosa’s ongoing efforts to mediate peace between Russia and Ukraine.
"It’s a war that will never be won militarily, negotiations must be inclusive," Magwenya said, reaffirming South Africa’s commitment to dialogue and peace.
hope.ntanzi@iol.co.za
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