US G20 boycott ‘no threat’ to bilateral ties, says Ntshavheni

By Simon Nare

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni has dismissed speculation that the United States’ boycott of the G20 Leaders’ Summit could further strain the already fragile relations between the two countries.

Ntshavheni told a post-Cabinet media briefing on Thursday that the boycott would not affect bilateral relations between the two countries, explaining that the summit involved multiple nations, whereas the US and South Africa maintained what she described as a “solid” bilateral relationship.

“South Africa has its own bilateral relations with the US. We have indicated that we deem that relationship as strategic and is important to us,” said Ntshavheni.

“They are one amongst our trading partners and that’s why we want to cement that. And to demonstrate the commitment from both sides to the relationship that’s why the negotiations are continuing.”

Ntshavheni said other countries were not being afforded the privilege of round-table discussions on tariffs and