South Africa’s ambassador to the United States, Roelf Meyer, says the country must move quickly to repair its strained relationship with Washington as political and economic tensions continue.

According to The Citizen, Meyer made the comments during the launch of his political memoir at the Cape Town Press Club on Monday. He said rebuilding ties with the US was one of his main responsibilities as ambassador.

Meyer says US relationship matters

Meyer described the United States as an important partner for South Africa, pointing to the size of the American economy and the long-standing relationship between the two countries.

Relations have come under growing pressure in recent months. The Citizen reported that tensions increased after US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced visa restrictions targeting foreign nationals accused of involvement in race-based discrimination and uncompensated land seizures in South Africa.

US President Donald Trump has also repeatedly criticised South Africa since returning to the White House, including making claims about the treatment of white Afrikaners in the country.

Meyer said the relationship was strained and that both sides needed to find a way forward.

Jobs and investment remain a concern

Meyer said the relationship is not only about politics. He argued that it also has consequences for South Africa’s economy, investment and employment.

He noted that more than 600 American companies operate in South Africa, contributing to investment and job creation.

“Our job is to create jobs in South Africa. That is ultimately what it is about,” Meyer said.

He added that South Africa should work to improve both its political and trade relationship with the US.

Meyer calls for dialogue, not blame

Meyer said assigning blame would not help resolve the current tensions.

Instead, he said his focus was on helping restore the relationship as quickly as possible, whether that required engagement with Washington or Pretoria.

During the event, Meyer also reflected on South Africa’s transition to democracy. He said one of its key successes was keeping the political middle ground together and focusing on the country’s future.

He also highlighted the Constitution as the foundation of South Africa’s democratic system, saying its supremacy remains one of the country’s most important achievements.