President Cyril Ramaphosa reported ongoing diplomatic engagement with the US after the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool, calling it a minor setback. He assured that both countries are important to one another, highlighting ongoing discussions to mend relations after tensions escalate under the Trump administration.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has announced ongoing diplomatic engagements with the United States following the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool. During a press conference at the Bana Pele 2030 Roadmap Leadership Summit, he expressed optimism, indicating positive progress in discussions at the diplomatic level. Ramaphosa characterized the incident as a minor ‘hiccup’ that will soon be resolved.
He emphasized that South Africa and the US share mutual importance, highlighting that they cannot afford to ignore each other. In response to questions about whether South Africa was being sidelined by the US, Ramaphosa strongly refuted that notion, asserting that the two nations are significant partners politically and economically.
Ramaphosa claimed that the US had communicated formally regarding Rasool’s expulsion, signaling respect in their ongoing relationship. He reassured South African citizens that his administration is diligently working to mend the relationship with the US, encouraging them not to worry about the situation.
Ambassador Rasool was labeled unwelcome by US State Secretary Marco Rubio, who criticized him as a “race-baiting politician who hates America”. This incident reflects a broader trend of strained relations between South Africa and the US, which have worsened since President Trump took office. Recently, Trump reduced aid to South Africa, alleging discrimination against the white Afrikaner community, which South Africa vehemently denies.
President Ramaphosa aims to reassure South Africans about the relationship with the United States after the diplomatic incident involving Ambassador Rasool. He emphasizes the importance of US-South Africa ties and reports progress in diplomatic discussions, portraying the issue as a temporary setback. The expulsion and accompanying tensions illustrate the complexities of international relations amid changing political landscapes.
Original Source: www.the-star.co.ke
