Last week in London, I was offered a rational perspective on Cyril Ramaphosa’s international intentions and his associated actions that appear to be baffling pretty much everyone except his inner circle.
While breaking bread with a top-grade political consultant, my host suggested increased global polarisation provides South Africa with a unique opportunity to position itself as a genuinely neutral player. Being acceptable to both the West and China would deliver significant benefits as conflict between them escalates in future, as it surely must.
Also read: How world sees SA: Ramaphosa’s ICC gaffe underscores Putin quandary – FT
___STEADY_PAYWALL___For instance, neutrality ensures products manufactured in SA could be sold into both the US and China, making it an increasingly attractive option for multinationals. Morocco, he said, has stolen a march in this neutrality race. But provided SA dispenses with some obvious obstacles, it could quickly catch up to and even surpass its continental competitor.
