The South African Presidency has declared President Cyril Ramaphosa’s working visit to the United States a “success“, with both nations set to engage in trade talks aimed at boosting economic prosperity.

The visit, conducted at the invitation of US President Donald Trump, sought to ease recent diplomatic tensions and reshape bilateral trade relations. In a statement, the Presidency confirmed that discussions focused on strengthening economic ties, with both leaders welcoming the expected launch of formal trade negotiations.

However, the delegation’s performance has come under fire from analysts. Moeletsi Mbeki, Chairperson of the South African Institute of International Affairs, criticized Ramaphosa and his cabinet for appearing unprepared during their meeting with Trump.

“They didn’t rehearse—they should have rehearsed for this question because they knew it was coming,” Mbeki said, referencing Trump’s repeated claims about crime and alleged farmer killings in South Africa. “They ended up denouncing our own country… I was shocked.”

Mbeki expressed dismay that the delegation had described South Africa as crime-ridden during the talks, potentially harming the nation’s tourism and global reputation. “They went to the White House and bad-mouthed the country—that’s what happens if you don’t prepare,” he added.

The analyst also questioned why Trump has been encouraging a segment of South Africa’s population to relocate to the US, urging the government to investigate the motives behind such remarks.

While the Presidency emphasized progress in trade discussions, the backlash highlights concerns over diplomatic strategy as South Africa navigates its relationship with the world’s largest economy.