The Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation has congratulated the United States’ President-elect, Mr Donald Trump.

The Acting Committee Chairperson, Mr Bheki Radebe, said he welcomed the spirit with which the candidates competed in this election, and the ease with which defeat was conceded. It is democracy in action when the less popular candidate wins and the loser graciously accepts. The African continent has historical relations with the United States that dates back into history, Mr Radebe said.

President-elect Trump should continue in that spirit and deepen aid and increase trade relations with Africa. The truth is that the United States needs the world and the world needs the United States for stability and a prosperous future, he said.

The Republican Mr Trump defeated his Democratic rival, Ms Hillary Clinton, this morning. In delivering his victory speech, he vowed to be a president for all Americans. He will officially assume office in January 2017, taking over from President Barack Obama.

President-elect Trump has an opportunity to demonstrate to the world that he is for development and prosperity, in line with his campaign message of making America great again, Mr Radebe said.

Source: Government of South Africa