DIRCO defends policy change that will enable Musk's Starlink to operate in SA as 'in the national interest

BRINGING billionaire Elon Musk's controversial satellite internet system, Starlink, into South Africa's airspace is in the country's national interest because it will help meet its developmental goals, said Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes.

- NICOLA MAWSON

During a conference on illicit financial flows, mobilising domestic resources, and financing for development, hosted at SGN Grant Thornton's offices at the end of last week, Botes said that any trade agreement would be subordinate to the Constitution and must facilitate development.

Botes also hinted at government's policy towards trade agreements with the United States following President Cyril Ramaphosa's meeting with Trump on May 21. He said that the county’s policies are “not subordinate to trade incentives”.

The Deputy Minister added: “We can only speak about what our constitutional imperatives are.” He explained that it was important that public debates were held as government effects changes in law when public opinion focuses on certain issues.

However, Botes also said that the United States is South Africa’s second largest trade partner as a country following China. “It would be reckless to say we don't need the US,” he noted, speaking specifically about automotive exports.