Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, speaking at a press conference.
(The Post News)- International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola has said that South Africa will soon decide on appointing an ambassador to the United States.
Lamola explained that while President Cyril Ramaphosa’s special envoy, Mcebisi Jonas, has not yet traveled to the United States, the position remains temporary, and the government does not intend to replace him. He added that Jonas continues to carry out his responsibilities. Lamola emphasized Jonas’ importance in managing the country’s U.S. relations during this period.
During a media briefing on Wednesday, Lamola told reporters that government officials continue to interact regularly with their U.S. counterparts despite ongoing tensions. He highlighted that his team is actively working to reduce the hefty trade tariffs the U.S. introduced, which have affected South African exports and his country’s economic interests.
According to Lamola, he personally oversees some of the strategic discussions, ensuring that the envoy can complete his assigned tasks effectively. Lamola said that even though Jonas has not traveled to the U.S., “he has completed several key tasks.”
He explained that Jonas attended the G7 alongside the president and interacted with various parties regarding strategy and behind-the-scenes matters, all under his oversight. He said that Jonas’ work supports South Africa’s diplomatic objectives, and he remains directly involved in guiding these efforts.
He further explained that Jonas, as the president’s temporary envoy, plays a crucial role in maintaining bilateral engagement. The minister praised Jonas for his contribution to the ministry thus far, emphasizing that he does not plan to replace Jonas before appointing a full-fledged ambassador.
Government Pushes Trade Talks and Diplomatic Engagement
However, Lamola also said that the appointment of a new ambassador is approaching soon. He recalled the abrupt expulsion of former ambassador Ebrahim Rasool in March, noting that his government is determined to avoid similar disruptions.
Rassol was deemed persona non grata by the United States following his inflammatory remarks about U.S. President Donald Trump’s government. Rasool claimed during a webinar hosted by the Mapungubwe Institute for Strategic Reflection that white supremacist ideology was central to Trump’s government. Rasool’s remarks were noticed by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who promptly announced Rasool’s departure.
Thus, Lamola explained that his office carefully assesses candidates to ensure that the next ambassador can represent South Africa’s interests effectively in Washington. He added that his team continues to manage the current diplomatic efforts while he coordinates with Jonas to maintain his duties.
He said his approach balances the immediate need for representation with long-term diplomatic goals. In addition, he highlighted that a U.S. congressional group focused on international relations is scheduled to visit South Africa this week. Lamola will personally meet with some of the delegates to discuss strategic matters, and his office has prepared detailed briefings to support Jonas’s work. His engagement in these talks underscores his commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
Balancing Diplomacy and Trade Priorities
Meanwhile, Lamola stressed that the government continues to negotiate with the U.S. to reduce trade barriers. He said that he oversees the development of strategies to protect his country’s trade interests and to facilitate smoother communication between the two governments. He stated that he is committed to maintaining stable and productive relations with the U.S.
He emphasized that his office, along with Jonas, is preparing for the ambassadorial appointment, which will mark a significant step in normalizing relations. Going forward, Lamola said he expects the new ambassador to continue his work effectively while Jonas fulfills his temporary role.
He noted that his engagement and oversight will provide consistency and stability, and he believes that his efforts, combined with Jonas’s work, will strengthen bilateral cooperation. Moreover, Lamola said that his focus on careful planning and strategic diplomacy positions South Africa to achieve its trade and diplomatic goals with the U.S.
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