Strategic move to deepen ties. Washington consulting firm establishes office in South Africa

Pretoria, South Africa - In a decisive move that signals a growing interest in Africa's expanding markets and geopolitical importance, Global Political Solutions™ LLC (GPS), a Washington-based legal, lobbying and business advisory firm, has officially established an office in South Africa. The move marks a significant milestone in the firm's global expansion strategy to deepen its engagement with African governments and private sector representatives.

This expansion is being led by a respected South African lawyer Ajay Sooklalwho joins GPS as head of the Africa/South Asia division. Mr. Sooklal brings more than four decades of legal and international business development experience. His distinguished career includes serving as legal advisor to former Presidents Nelson Mandela and Jacob Zuma, as well as the African National Congress (ANC). He has also advised key ministries of the South African government, including the Departments of Justice, Public Works and Tourism.

Managing Partner GPS Aaron T. Manaigo, an experienced political strategist in American business and foreign policy circles, described the appointment as a natural extension of a long-standing professional relationship. "Ajay and I have worked together on several major political and business initiatives over the past 25 years. His legal acumen, diplomatic sensitivity and continental knowledge make him an invaluable asset to GPS and the clients we serve."

This expansion reflects a broader realignment of U.S. engagement in Africa, moving away from traditional donor-recipient models to more equal partnerships based on trade, investment, and shared strategic interests. South Africa, with its well-developed financial infrastructure, political maturity, and leadership role on the continent, offers an ideal platform for such a shift.

"There are many opportunities for cross-border business development, market entry and strategic investment between the U.S. and African economies," Sooklal said. "Now we need to turn this potential into practical results. Now is the time for robust and mutually beneficial collaboration."

The firm's services will focus on foreign direct investment facilitation, legal and regulatory advice, public policy analysis and strategic communications. GPS is uniquely positioned to help African governments and private companies navigate the complexities of U.S. policymaking, especially at a time when agencies like USAID and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) are facing restructuring. Another key area of focus for GPS is supporting various governments in navigating the ever-changing foreign appropriations (grants) process on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.

Mr Manaigo added that this South African chapter is only the beginning. "Africa, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia have long been priority regions for GPS. We are now putting these ambitions into practice, starting with South Africa. The second phase of our expansion includes establishing offices in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia."

This development is particularly relevant at a time when global South-South cooperation is gaining momentum and Africa is asserting its role in shaping international economic policy. The establishment of GPS in South Africa is an important signal that global consultancies recognise the continent not only as a market but as a partner.

At a time when the world is rethinking global governance and diplomacy in a multipolar context, companies like GPS, with the right local partnerships and global reach, will be key to connecting continents and interests for the benefit of all.

Kirtan Bhana

The Diplomatic Society/gnews.cz - cik