• South Africans praised President Ramaphosa for maintaining composure during a tense meeting with Trump.
• Trump accused the South African government of "white genocide," claims widely discredited.
• Ramaphosa opted for a diplomatic approach, involving members of his delegation to present accurate information.
• The meeting aimed to strengthen trade relations amidst declining U.S.-South Africa ties.
• Local residents expressed strong support for Ramaphosa’s strategic response to Trump's provocations.

Following a tense meeting at the White House, South Africans have rallied behind President Cyril Ramaphosa, who remained composed amidst President Donald Trump's accusations of a so-called "white genocide" in South Africa. Many South Africans praised Ramaphosa's dignified response, arguing that he effectively represented the nation in challenging circumstances, according to Channel News Asia and Africanews.

During the meeting, Trump confronted Ramaphosa with unfounded claims regarding the treatment of white farmers in South Africa, which has drawn widespread condemnation from experts and human rights organizations. Despite the somewhat combative approach taken by Trump, who played a controversial video and showcased articles to support his claims, Ramaphosa maintained a calm demeanor, according to Le Monde and Anadolu Agency.

While the focus of the meeting was intended to revolve around enhancing trade and investment ties, Trump's persistent highlighting of nonexistent "white genocide" overshadowed these discussions. Ramaphosa took the opportunity to emphasize that South Africa is a vibrant democracy confronting its complex history, thus aiming to reshape the narrative around current events, as noted by India Times and Channel News Asia.

After the meeting, foreign ministry spokesperson Chrispin Phiri defended Ramaphosa’s approach, stating that it is not in the president's nature to be combative and that the engagement with Trump was necessary despite the contentious backdrop. The South African presidency listed a commitment to restoring bilateral relations as a positive outcome of the meeting, reflecting a mutual interest to foster stronger economic ties, according to Anadolu Agency and Le Monde.

Local responses to Ramaphosa's handling of the situation suggest public appreciation for his strategic selection of delegates, including prominent South African golfers who may have helped moderate the discussion. This diplomatic maneuvering contrasted sharply with Trump's accusatory tone and narrative, allowing Ramaphosa to highlight the ongoing reconciliation and inclusivity that his administration champions, according to Africanews and Channel News Asia.