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MUSK AT CYRIL SHOWDOWN

Trump to druk SA prez on BEE to open doors for Starlink

Voice Reporter|Published

DOUBLE TEAM: Elon Musk and Donald Trump

Image: Brandon Bell / Getty Images via AFP

South African-born tech billionaire, Elon Musk, was set to sit in on Wednesday's crucial meeting between President Cyril Ramaphosa and US leader, Donald Trump. 

This comes following reports that the Tesla and Starlink CEO claimed at the Qatar Economic Forum that he was not allowed to launch Starlink in South Africa because of Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) laws.

According to a New York Times report, Trump plans to urge Ramaphosa to reconsider what he and Musk describe as "racist laws".

Joining them will be celebrated golfing icons Ernie Els and Retief Goosen, as well as South African billionaire Johann Rupert.

The meeting is seen as crucial for South Africa's future, not only in terms of economic ties but also in the context of a economic transformation.

Musk, who has been outspoken against these laws, voiced his concerns once again just a day prior to the meeting, framing them as impediments to South Africa's economic progress.

According to reports from an anonymous White House official, Trump is also expected to druk Ramaphosa on "land grabs" and "White Genocide" claims

The South African delegation is ready to present a suite of trade incentives aimed at fostering closer ties with the United States, with an emphasis on providing access to South Africa's abundant mineral resources, which are seen as pivotal to both economies. 

With both sides preparing to navigate a range of sensitive topics, observers around the globe will be watching closely as this landmark meeting unfolds, anticipating that it may mark a turning point in international relations between South Africa and one of its most significant trade partners.