President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit to the United States culminated in a high-stakes meeting with President Donald Trump, centered on fortifying trade relations and dispelling misconceptions about South Africa. Ramaphosa expressed optimism about the engagement, framing it as an opportunity to deepen economic cooperation and advance South Africa's interests. Trade and investment promotion were emphasized as the focal points, with the aim of securing a robust trade agreement that supports economic growth and job creation. Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of resetting bilateral trade relations between the two countries. As America is South Africa's second-largest trading partner, this visit was deemed crucial.

The discussions aimed to address the technical nullification of African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) benefits, which had been impacted by tariffs introduced by the Trump administration. The South African delegation sought to redefine the trade parameters between the two countries while respecting the Africa Free Trade Area. Beyond trade, the meetings also touched on South Africa's transformation agenda, with Minister Lamola clarifying that it is a constitutional mandate designed to benefit all South Africans without exclusion.

President Ramaphosa also addressed disinformation surrounding claims of "genocide" in South Africa, firmly emphasizing trade and investment promotion as the central focus of discussions. He also clarified South Africa's stance on geopolitical issues, including the Israel-Palestine conflict and the situation in Ukraine, asserting that South Africa approaches such matters with rationality and its national interest at heart. He emphasized that South Africa is a sovereign country that will always do what is best for its citizens. The President was accompanied by a high-level delegation of Ministers, including Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola; Minister in The Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni; Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Parks Tau; Minister of Agriculture, John Steenhuisen, and the Special Envoy to the United States of America, Mcebisi Jonas.

Minister Lamola emphasized that the transformation agenda is a constitutional mandate and a national imperative designed to benefit all South Africans, ensuring inclusive participation without exclusion. He reiterated that there is no persecution of white Afrikaners as a race and that the government is ready to address any concerns that may arise.

In addition to the political figures, renowned South African businessman Johann Rupert, and former golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen also joined the delegation. It was noted that South African-born businessman Elon Musk would not be present.