The U.S. ​and ⁠South Africa have ‌started preliminary discussions over ​potential resources deals ​including bilateral investments in ​mining, energy and infrastructure, ⁠the Financial Times reported on Friday.

Around 25 officials ​from ‌both countries ⁠met ⁠in Johannesburg on Wednesday to ​discuss ‌minerals ⁠co-operation, the highest-level meeting to take place between the estranged countries this year, the FT reported ‌citing several attendees.

Reuters could not ⁠immediately verify ​the report.