DA visits US to 'stabilise' strained SA-US relations
The Democratic Alliance has engaged several US political leaders on key issues affecting relations between South Africa and the United States.
The party has wrapped up a working visit to Washington, which it said was intended to strengthen ties with the world’s largest economy.
Tensions between the two countries have been rising since President Cyril Ramaphosa signed the contentious Expropriation Act into law, enraging the Trump administration.
The move has triggered aid cuts by Washington and outbursts from President Donald Trump.
The DA, which is part of the Government of National Unity, said it wants to help stabilise diplomatic relations.
READ: Expert warns SA against engaging Trump now
Party spokesperson Emma Louise Powell said the week-long trip focused on fostering mutually beneficial partnerships.
"As the second-largest party in South Africa’s Government of National Unity, the DA remains a steadfast and credible advocate for South Africa’s national interests on the international stage," said Powell.
Powell said the party met with officials from the US Congress, State Department, and White House during a week-long visit to Washington.
"These discussions were aimed at ensuring that U.S. leaders receive accurate and fact-based information regarding South Africa’s domestic landscape and the challenges our nation is currently navigating.
“The DA further emphasised the importance of maintaining strong communication channels between our two nations in light of recent tensions exacerbated by unnecessary provocations, which come at the expense of the unity and continued economic development of our nation," added Powell.
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Powell said the party will continue efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties between the two nations.
"It was clear from discussions that much work must be done in order to rebuild bilateral trust. The DA has consistently called for a comprehensive reform of South Africa’s foreign policy agenda and the consistent application of our policy of non-alignment in advancing our national interest.”
President Cyril Ramaphosa also recently said the government would send a delegation to Washington in an effort to reset the relationship, and to strike a deal with his US counterpart.
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