President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed the return of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool to South Africa after his expulsion by the U.S. State Department. Ramaphosa described the situation as a minor setback in relations and affirmed ongoing engagements with the U.S. Rasool faced expulsion due to remarks made during a recent webinar criticizing the Trump administration.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Monday the return of Ebrahim Rasool, the expelled Ambassador to the United States, who will brief him on recent events. The U.S. State Department has deemed Rasool “no longer acceptable” in the country. Ramaphosa eagerly awaits a detailed report from Rasool regarding the situation.
During his speech at the Bana Pele Early Childhood Development Leadership Summit in Johannesburg, President Ramaphosa emphasized South Africa’s dedication to maintaining strong ties with the U.S. He characterized the ambassador’s expulsion as a minor setback for their bilateral relations.
Rasool’s expulsion followed his remarks during a recent webinar organized by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, where he criticized the Trump administration. He stated, “What Donald Trump is launching is an assault on incumbency, those who are in power, by mobilizing a supremacism against the incumbency at home and I think I’ve illustrated abroad as well.”
Ramaphosa acknowledged the U.S. government’s concerns regarding Rasool’s comments, affirming that they have already noted the United States’ displeasure. He assured that discussions with the U.S. government are continuing in the wake of this incident.
In conclusion, President Cyril Ramaphosa awaits a comprehensive report from Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool following his expulsion by the U.S. State Department. Despite this development, Ramaphosa remains committed to fostering strong relations with the United States, acknowledging the concerns raised by Rasool’s comments about the Trump administration. The South African government is actively engaging in discussions to address these diplomatic challenges.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
