MTN Group
President Cyril Ramaphosa has appointed former deputy finance minister, Mcebisi Jonas, as the country’s new envoy to the United States.
He will replace Ebrahim Rasool who was declared persona non-grata for reportedly describing US president Donald Trump’s MAGA movement as a “supremacist reaction” to diversity in the US.
In a statement on Monday, the presidency said that Jonas will serve as the official representative of the President and the government of the Republic of South Africa.
“In this capacity, Mr Jonas is entrusted with the responsibility to advance South Africa's diplomatic, trade and bilateral priorities.
“He will lead negotiations, foster strategic partnerships and engage with U.S. government officials and private-sector leaders to promote our nation’s interests,” said presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya.
For decades South Africa and the United States of America have maintained a historical and strategic relationship.
“In the interest of our country, our region and the rest of our continent, I remain committed to rebuilding and maintaining this relationship for more decades on the basis of mutual respect, recognition of each other’s sovereignty and benefit for our respective peoples,” Jonas said.
The Presidency said Jonas currently holds the position of independent non-executive chairman of the MTN Group, a role he will maintain alongside his responsibilities as my Special Envoy.
