President Ramaphosa Meets President Trump at the White House for Bilateral Engagement
Washington, D.C. — President Cyril Ramaphosa is meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump today at the White House, marking a key moment in diplomatic and economic relations between South Africa and the United States. The official engagement began at 11:30 AM EDT (17:30 SAST) and will run through the early afternoon.
The programme commenced with a formal welcome by President Trump, followed by President Ramaphosa signing the White House visitors’ book. The two heads of state are currently participating in a working lunch, which will be followed by a bilateral meeting scheduled for 12:45 PM EDT (18:45 SAST). This meeting will include media interaction.
President Ramaphosa is expected to depart the White House at approximately 1:30 PM EDT (19:30 SAST).
The South African delegation accompanying President Ramaphosa includes senior government officials, business leaders, and prominent public figures:
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Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola
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Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni
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Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition Parks Tau
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Minister of Agriculture John Steenhuisen
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Professional Golfers Ernie Els and Retief Goosen
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Richemont Founder and Remgro Chairman Johann Rupert
Additional support is being provided by Business Unity South Africa (BUSA) Vice President Adrian Gore and COSATU President Zingiswa Losi, both in Washington to contribute to the strategic objectives of the visit.
On the U.S. side, the official delegation includes:
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Vice President JD Vance
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Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth
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Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick
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Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau
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Assistant to the President and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles
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Special Government Employee Elon Musk, representing the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)
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Senior Advisor for Africa and the Middle East Dr. Massad Boulos
The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral ties, deepen trade and investment cooperation, and foster partnerships across strategic sectors.
