South African President Awaits Briefing from Expelled US Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced that expelled Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool is returning to brief him on recent events. Ramaphosa emphasized the importance of U.S.-South Africa relations and described Rasool’s expulsion as a minor setback, acknowledging concerns regarding Rasool’s comments on the Trump administration.

President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa announced the return of Ebrahim Rasool, the expelled Ambassador to the United States, to provide a briefing regarding recent events. “Ebrahim Rasool will be back soon. The U.S. State Department has ruled that he is no longer acceptable in the United States. I will wait for a full report from him,” Ramaphosa remarked.

During his speech at the Bana Pele Early Childhood Development Summit in Johannesburg, President Ramaphosa underscored South Africa’s enduring commitment to its relationship with the United States, characterizing Rasool’s expulsion as a minor setback in diplomatic relations. He explained that ongoing engagements with U.S. officials indicate a willingness to resolve misunderstandings.

The expulsion of Rasool followed his comments made during a recent webinar hosted by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection, where he criticized the Trump administration. “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,” he stated.

President Ramaphosa acknowledged the concerns expressed by the United States regarding Rasool’s statements. He concluded that, “We have noted the displeasure of the United States with regard to remarks made by Ambassador Rasool. Engagements with the U.S. government are ongoing,” highlighting South Africa’s dedication to maintaining dialogue.

In summary, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed the return of Ebrahim Rasool, the expelled Ambassador to the United States, emphasizing the importance of ongoing relations with the U.S. despite the recent controversy. While acknowledging concern over Rasool’s critical remarks about the Trump administration, Ramaphosa expressed a commitment to continued diplomatic engagement, deeming the expulsion a temporary hurdle in bilateral relations.

Original Source: thepeninsulaqatar.com