JOHANNESBURG: President Cyril Ramaphosa said his US counterpart Donald Trump’s announcement that South Africa will not be invited to the G20 during the America’s presidency was “regrettable”.

Trump has continued with “punitive measures” despite efforts and numerous attempts by President Ramaphosa and his administration to reset the diplomatic relationship with the US, the presidency said in a statement.

The US president has continued his tirade against South Africa, following on his decision that there would be no US government participation at the G20 Leaders’ Summit hosted last weekend by South Africa as it ended its year-long presidency of the forum.