Outcomes of US elections won’t threaten US-SA bilateral ties, believes deputy trade minister

JOHANNESBURG - Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry Andrew Whitfield says he doesn’t believe the outcomes of the upcoming United States (US) elections will threaten South Africa’s bilateral ties with the global superpower.

There have been concerns that the African continent could be left out in the cold again if former President Donald Trump returns to the Oval Office.

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During his administration between 2016 and 2021, Trump’s take on African affairs was labelled as dismissive.

Trump is now expected to go head-to-head with Kamala Harris at the November polls.

With or without Trump, Whitfield said America’s relationship with South Africa and the rest of the continent is likely to continue beyond the current administration.

“The critical ingredient when dealing with the United States is to appreciate the bipartisan nature of congress. The reality is that the Republicans and Democrats agree on a tremendous amount behind the scenes, in committees, where the real work of congress is done.”

Whitfield made the comments during the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) forum in Washington, DC.

SA TRADE OFFICIALS USE GNU TO BOOST US INVESTORS' CONFIDENCE

As South Africa makes its case to US investors again, the country’s trade officials have used political stability in the Government of National Unity (GNU) to boost confidence.

Minister of Trade and Industry Parks Tau was joined by Whitfield and business leaders at the AGOA forum.

Whitfield said they've assured the US that the GNU’s priorities include stronger bilateral ties between the two countries.

“We are bringing a positive trade argument to the table. We are reassuring the United States that the Government of National Unity presents a new opportunity for America, its companies, but also strengthening those relationships and strengthening those into the future.”