By Lesedi Sibiya-Diplomatic Insider

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa led a delegation in New York at the SA-USA Trade and Investment Executive Dialogue on Wednesday.

The aim of this dialogue particularly from the South African perspective is to continue to strengthen the ties between South Africa and the United States.

 Ramaphosa gave an address at the investment dialogue stating that the relationship between the two nations is crucial as South Africa is in need of US investment as well as ensuring that local businesses will be present in the United States.

 “I wish to begin by acknowledging the depth of the partnership between South Africa and the United States…This is a relationship defined not only by diplomacy but by the practical ties of trade, investment and shared innovation,” said President Ramaphosa in his keynote address.

Ramaphosa also continued to highlight that the United States is heavily involved in South Africa with 600 companies from the United States operating within South Africa.

“They are invested in areas as diverse as aerospace, mining and energy, consumer goods and finance.” stated Ramaphosa.

 South Africa and the United States have undergone some tension this year especially in regards to the trading relationship between the two countries as America imposed 30% tariffs on South African exports.

Ramaphosa also appealed for the renewal of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA); “AGOA has been the foundation of US-Africa trade for nearly a quarter of a century” stated Ramaphosa as the act holds beneficial stability opportunities for eligible African countries by not charging them tariffs.

 Ramaphosa highlighted that there needs to be more collaboration in regards to green energy, health care as well digital innovation and growth as Ramaphosa calls for “inclusive prosperity” between South Africa and the United States.

“These imperatives include ensuring resilient supply chains, advancing the clean energy transition, securing access to critical minerals for the industries of the future, and fostering inclusive growth that creates jobs for young people in both our countries,” said Ramaphosa.