South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to begin a state visit to the United States, meeting President Donald Trump at the White House amid recent tensions over claims of discrimination in South Africa.

Trump has accused South Africa of minority discrimination, particularly targeting Afrikaners, claims which Ramaphosa has strongly denied, stating there is no genocide occurring.

Ramaphosa emphasized that the focus of the visit will be on strengthening trade and bilateral relations between the two countries, framing the discussions as state-to-state interactions.

During his visit, Gwede Mantashe will act as South Africa’s Acting President until 22 May.