The visit came at a challenging moment for South Africa’s international relations. Just a day earlier, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that the United States would boycott the upcoming G20 summit in South Africa. His decision also applied to Vice President JD Vance, who had been expected to attend in his place.

Trump explained the boycott on social media, accusing South Africa of allowing abuses against white Afrikaner farmers. His administration has repeated these claims for years and recently suggested that most of America’s limited refugee intake would be reserved for white South Africans.

South Africa has rejected the allegations as baseless. President Ramaphosa has said he personally informed Trump that the claims are “completely false.” Government officials expressed disbelief at the accusations, pointing out that white South Africans, on average, continue to enjoy far higher living standards than Black citizens more than 30 years after apartheid ended. This sharp contrast highlights the deep disconnect fuelling the diplomatic tension.

Despite the political backdrop, Ramaphosa’s meeting with the Pope was framed as an opportunity to promote dialogue, understanding, and continued partnership.

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