South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced ongoing diplomatic engagement with the US following the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, whom US State Secretary Rubio criticized. Ramaphosa described the situation as a minor ‘hiccup’ and emphasized the importance of maintaining relations between the two nations. He assured South Africans of his administration’s commitment to resolve the issue and improve bilateral ties.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has indicated that his government is actively engaging with the United States following the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool. During his remarks at the Bana Pele 2030 Roadmap Leadership Summit, Ramaphosa stated that meaningful discussions are underway at the diplomatic level, reflecting some progress in addressing the diplomatic situation. He characterized the expulsion as a mere ‘hiccup’ that will be resolved promptly.
President Ramaphosa emphasized the mutual significance of South Africa and the United States, underscoring that both nations cannot afford to overlook one another. This assertion came in response to an inquiry from a journalist about the potential neglect of South Africa by the US since the news of the ambassador’s expulsion surfaced on social media. The President firmly disagreed with the notion that South Africa was being ignored, affirming that both countries share a crucial political and economic relationship.
The President remarked, “We cannot be blue ticked (ignored) because we are such an important player to the United States of America as they are an important player to South Africa from a political point of view, trade, and a whole number of other important points.” He noted that the communication from the United States confirming the expulsion exemplified the formal nature of their relationship, and reiterated his commitment to engaging with the US respectfully.
In assuring the citizens of South Africa, President Ramaphosa stated that efforts are relentless to mend the bilateral relationship. He expressed concern for public sentiment, advising them not to worry about the state of affairs with the US. The expulsion of Ambassador Rasool followed US State Secretary Marco Rubio’s description of him as a “race-baiting politician who hates America.”
Tensions between South Africa and the United States have escalated since President Donald Trump’s election, notably following his decision to cut aid to South Africa amidst allegations of discrimination against the white Afrikaner minority—a claim that South Africa firmly denies. Ambassador Rasool had previously served in the role from 2010 to 2015 under President Barack Obama, further emphasizing the complexities of US-South Africa relations.
In conclusion, President Cyril Ramaphosa has reassured that South Africa is actively engaged in dialogue with the United States following the recent expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool. He emphasized the importance of the bilateral relationship and characterized the current challenges as minor setbacks. The South African administration is committed to fostering diplomatic engagement, aiming to restore and enhance relations with the United States amidst the backdrop of ongoing tensions since President Trump’s administration.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
