South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that expelled Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool will return to brief him after the U.S. deemed him unacceptable. Ramaphosa regards the situation as a minor setback in U.S.-South Africa relations, acknowledging concerns over Rasool’s critical remarks about the Trump administration. Engagement with the U.S. will continue.
President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa has announced that Ebrahim Rasool, the recently expelled Ambassador to the United States, will return to South Africa to provide him with a detailed account of the situation. The U.S. State Department has declared Rasool “no longer acceptable” in their country, prompting his return.
During an event at the Bana Pele Early Childhood Development Leadership Summit in Johannesburg, President Ramaphosa expressed that, although Rasool’s expulsion represents a challenge, it should be perceived as a minor setback for the overall relationship between South Africa and the United States.
Rasool’s expulsion followed his comments during a webinar hosted by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, in which he criticized the Trump administration, suggesting it was fostering a form of supremacism against those in power. He stated, “What Donald Trump is launching is an assault on incumbency…”
Ramaphosa acknowledged the concerns raised by the U.S. regarding Rasool’s statements, saying, “We have noted the displeasure of the United States with regard to remarks made by Ambassador Rasool.” Continuous dialogues with the U.S. government are being maintained to address these concerns.
In summary, President Cyril Ramaphosa’s response to the expulsion of Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool signifies South Africa’s commitment to maintaining constructive relations with the United States, despite challenges. The ongoing engagement between the two nations reflects a desire to address diplomatic concerns and foster cooperation.
Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com
