But this should not understate the more deeply held views within the ANC about the West in general, and the United States and Republicans in particular. This sentiment is dangerous to both South African and American longer-term interests, and one that is both as misinformed about the realities of American domestic and foreign policy as it is founded on a combination of perceptions about race, domination, exclusion and imperialism. To this extent, Pretoria remains a costly prisoner of its paradigm of international engagement. 

The contemporary paradox of improving trade and investment relations and growing bilateral political estrangement between Washington and Pretoria will have to be reconciled lest the relationship deteriorate further.  This is a key priority for Mbeki, Pahad and the U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for Africa Walter Kansteiner. It is axiomatic that South Africa and the United States have much to offer globally in partnership beyond just bilateral economic ties - from co-operating in the war against terror to sharing transitional experiences from disarmament to democracy, common features both to NEPAD and the Bush Administration's weltanschauung   

 

Greg Mills is the National Director of The South African Institute of International Affairs.