South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was welcomed by his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron at the presidential palace in Paris on Friday.

Discussions between the two men were due to focus on ways of strengthening political, economic, and strategic cooperation between the two countries.

The meeting also provides an opportunity to discuss regional security, including conflicts in Africa, and broader global issues countries.

The presidency initially said he had been excluded because “sustained pressure from the United States”, a claim Ramaphosa later said was incorrect.

According to the French presidency, his visit to France this weekend is intended to reinforce the longstanding partnership between the two countries.

Ramaphosa will also co-chair discussions at UNESCO focused on quality education and meet with French business leaders.

On Sunday, he will take commemorations marking the 110th anniversary of the Battle of Delvile Wood in northern France during which over 2,500 South African soldiers died.