South Africa Defies Trump's Bullying Amid Worsening Relations
Key Points:
* President Cyril Ramaphosa vows to resist pressure from the Trump administration.
* US Secretary of State Marco Rubio withdraws from G20 summit over South Africa's policies.
* South Africa's foreign policy prioritizes human rights, peace, and fair trade.
* Government to invest heavily in infrastructure to drive economic growth and create jobs.
* Plans to reform struggling state entities and establish Black-owned small business fund.
South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the country will not succumb to bullying from the Trump administration amidst escalating tensions between the two nations. Ramaphosa's remarks follow criticism from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who withdrew from a G20 summit in Johannesburg, citing concerns over South Africa's approach to inequality and climate change.
In his state-of-the-nation address, Ramaphosa outlined South Africa's foreign policy principles, emphasizing the promotion of human rights, peace, and fair trade. He also highlighted the country's commitment to addressing global challenges such as nationalism and protectionism.
Despite the strain in relations with the US, Ramaphosa announced plans to invest heavily in infrastructure over the next three years, with the aim of achieving a growth rate of over 3% and reducing the high unemployment rate. The government will also establish a fund to support Black-owned and small businesses.
To address the challenges facing state-owned entities, Ramaphosa announced the creation of a dedicated unit to oversee their reform. Additionally, the funding model for municipalities will be reviewed, and separate water and power utilities will be established at the local government level.
The President's speech comes as Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana prepares to present the national budget. Godongwana has pledged to maintain fiscal consolidation while addressing welfare concerns, wage increases, and state company bailouts.
Other notable highlights from the speech include:
* A commitment to meet carbon-reduction targets
* Seeking private investment in power-transmission infrastructure
* Tackling water shortages
* Introducing a digital visa-application service for tourists
* Finalizing a new industrialization policy and establishing a regulatory framework for critical minerals
South Africa's relations with the US have deteriorated in recent months over Trump's false accusations of land seizures and threats to cut funding. This standoff has impacted South Africa's economy and complicated Ramaphosa's efforts to lead the G20 and promote a more equitable global order.