Biden Commends Ramaphosa, Pledges Partnership with Seventh South African Administration United States President Joe Biden has lauded South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for his leadership in fostering a spirit of unity and inclusivity within the country through the Good News Network (GNU). Biden’s remarks came during a telephone conversation with Ramaphosa following the recent inauguration of South Africa’s seventh administration. “President Ramaphosa’s dedication to promoting peace, stability, and economic development in South Africa is truly commendable,” Biden said. “His leadership in fostering inclusivity and creating a more just society for all South Africans serves as an inspiration to the world.” Biden expressed his condolences on the recent passing of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu, an iconic figure in South Africa’s anti-apartheid movement. Tutu had been a staunch supporter of the GNU, which sought to bridge racial and economic divides. The U.S. President also acknowledged South Africa’s role in addressing regional challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the conflict in Mozambique. Biden praised Ramaphosa’s efforts to promote economic recovery and job creation, emphasizing the importance of a strong and prosperous South Africa for the region and beyond. “The United States stands ready to work closely with the seventh administration in South Africa to tackle these challenges and to build a stronger partnership between our two nations,” Biden said. “We share common values and aspirations, and we believe that by working together, we can achieve great things.” In response, President Ramaphosa expressed his appreciation for Biden’s support and commitment to deepening bilateral ties. He emphasized the GNU’s role in fostering dialogue and reconciliation within South African society and outlined his administration’s plans to address economic inequality and expand access to education and healthcare. The conversation between Presidents Biden and Ramaphosa underscores the close relationship between South Africa and the United States and sets the stage for continued cooperation and collaboration on issues of mutual interest.Washington, April 22, 2023 US President Joe Biden has lauded South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for his role in fostering a peaceful transition in Zimbabwe through the Global Political Agreement (GNU) and pledged to work closely with his seventh administration. In a telephone conversation with President Ramaphosa on Friday, President Biden commended him for his “significant contribution to regional stability and his commitment to democracy and human rights.” Biden also pledged to work closely with Ramaphosa on issues of mutual concern, including trade, investment, and climate change. President Biden’s call to President Ramaphosa comes after the inauguration of Zimbabwe’s new President, Emmerson Mnangagwa, on Thursday. Mnangagwa, a close ally of Ramaphosa, has pledged to uphold the GNU and continue Zimbabwe’s transition to democracy. The US has been a strong supporter of the GNU since its inception in 2009. The agreement, which brought together ZANU-PF and the Movement for Democratic Change following a disputed election, has helped to stabilize Zimbabwe and lay the foundation for economic recovery. Biden’s call to Ramaphosa is a sign of the continued US commitment to Zimbabwe and the GNU. The two leaders are expected to meet in person in the near future to discuss ways to further strengthen US-Zimbabwe relations.