Cape Town – South Africa’s newly appointed Special Envoy to the United States, Mcebisi Jonas, has vowed to promote strong diplomatic ties between Pretoria and Washington, acknowledging the complexities of the current global climate.
In a statement issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) on Monday, Jonas expressed gratitude to President Cyril Ramaphosa for entrusting him with the key diplomatic assignment.
“I would like to thank President Cyril Ramaphosa for entrusting me with this important but challenging role,” said Jonas. “I will do my best to promote a healthy working relationship between South Africa and the United States.”
Statement by Mcebisi Jonas: Special Envoy to the United States of America
14 April 2025I would like to thank President Cyril Ramaphosa for entrusting me with this important but challenging role. I will do my best to promote a healthy working relationship between South Africa… pic.twitter.com/K1Ms4exrO2
— Chrispin Phiri 🇿🇦 (@Chrispin_JPhiri) April 14, 2025
His appointment comes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions and shifting alliances, with South Africa facing increasing scrutiny over its foreign policy positions.
Jonas said he is “fully cognisant of the difficulties that lie ahead” but believes there are ‘areas of commonality and mutual interest” that can be leveraged to reaffirm the “long-standing ties between our two countries”.
He cautioned that progress will take time and urged the South African public to be patient as government engages with various stakeholders across both nations.
“There are no quick fixes in such a complex situation,” he said.
Jonas, a former deputy finance minister brings significant political and economic experience to the role.
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu
