# Former president Thabo Mbeki has urged South Africa to pursue constructive dialogue with the United States to avert a trade war, while safeguarding national sovereignty. Speaking on economic challenges at UNISA, Mbeki cautioned against confrontation after Washington DC’s imposed 30-percent tariffs on key exports. Mbeki endorsed government efforts, stressing diplomacy and trade diversification with Europe, China, and BRICS as vital. He also insisted South Africa’s stance on its independence:
Mbeki emphasises SA wants no trade wars with US [SOUND]
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