South Africa’s ruling party, the African National Congress (ANC), has warned the United States that Pretoria’s foreign policy will not be dictated by any external power, amid growing diplomatic tensions between the two countries.

In a statement posted on X, Mbalula Fikile of the ANC said South Africa would determine its international relations independently, adding that even foreign diplomats posted to the country should recognise that its policies are shaped by its people and government.

“We must make it clear to all whoma we welcome in our beautiful country, including the new US ambassador, that South Africa’s international relations policy will not be dictated by anyone else but South Africans and their government,” the party said.

The remarks come as relations between South Africa and the United States face renewed strain under the administration of Donald Trump, with disagreements over global alignments, economic policy and diplomatic priorities.

The ANC also dismissed speculation that American technology and financial firms could withdraw investments from the country over political tensions.

“Threats of investors pulling out such as Amazon, Google, Visa and Microsoft are unfounded,” the party said, insisting that major US companies remain confident in South Africa’s economy.

American firms maintain a significant presence in the country. More than 500 US companies operate in South Africa and employ over 250,000 people, making the United States one of Pretoria’s most important investment partners in sub-Saharan Africa.

In recent years, major technology companies have expanded operations in the country. Google launched its first African cloud region in Johannesburg, while Microsoft has committed billions of rand to expand cloud and artificial intelligence infrastructure in the country. Visa also opened its first African data centre in Johannesburg as part of a multi-year investment programme.

The ANC further pointed to continued business engagement with international partners during recent global meetings, including the G20, where multinational companies participated despite the absence of senior officials from the Trump administration.

The party also emphasised that South Africa remains open to foreign investment and continues to present itself as a stable destination for global businesses.

“South Africa is open for business and is a safe destination for global companies to do business,” the statement said.

Beyond the economic debate, the ANC reiterated its long-standing foreign policy stance in favour of a multipolar world order, stressing support for international law and global institutions.

Pretoria has frequently described itself as non-aligned in global politics, maintaining diplomatic relations with both Western powers and emerging blocs such as BRICS. South African officials have repeatedly argued that the country should not be forced to choose sides in geopolitical rivalries.

However, the balancing act has drawn criticism from some US lawmakers and analysts who accuse the government of leaning toward Washington’s rivals, particularly China and Russia.

Despite these disagreements, the United States remains one of South Africa’s most important economic partners, with bilateral trade and investment links spanning sectors such as finance, manufacturing, technology and agriculture. (Guardian)

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