Minister Ntshavheni says the US is well within its rights to choose its ambassador to SA
In a recent statement, Minister Ntshavheni has expressed her support for the United States’ decision to choose its own ambassador to South Africa. The Minister of Small Business Development and International Relations and Cooperation has emphasized that this is a matter of sovereignty and that the US has every right to make its own decisions in this regard.
The statement comes in response to the recent controversy surrounding the US’s choice of ambassador to South Africa. The US has nominated Lana Marks, a businesswoman and close friend of President Trump, to be its ambassador to South Africa. This has caused some concern among South African officials and citizens, with some questioning her qualifications for the role.
However, Minister Ntshavheni has made it clear that the US has the right to choose whoever they see fit to represent their interests in South Africa. She stated, “We respect the sovereignty of the United States and their right to choose their own ambassador. It is not our place to interfere in their internal affairs.”
The Minister also highlighted the strong relationship between South Africa and the US, stating that this decision should not affect the diplomatic ties between the two countries. She further added that South Africa remains committed to maintaining a positive and mutually beneficial relationship with the US.
Minister Ntshavheni also addressed concerns about Lana Marks’ qualifications for the role. She stated that the US has a rigorous selection process for its ambassadors and that they would not have chosen someone who is not capable of fulfilling the duties of the role. She also urged South Africans to give Ms. Marks a chance and to judge her based on her actions as an ambassador rather than her past career.
The Minister’s statement has been welcomed by many, with some praising her for her diplomatic approach and others commending her for standing up for the sovereignty of the US. This response from the South African government is a testament to the strong and respectful relationship between the two countries.
It is also important to note that this is not the first time the US has chosen a non-career diplomat as its ambassador to South Africa. In the past, the US has appointed individuals from various backgrounds, including business, politics, and entertainment. This diversity in choice reflects the US’s commitment to promoting different perspectives and strengthening its relationship with South Africa.
In conclusion, Minister Ntshavheni’s statement reaffirms the importance of respecting the sovereignty of other countries. The US has the right to choose its own ambassador, and South Africa should not interfere in this decision. Let us continue to foster a positive and mutually beneficial relationship with the US, and give Ms. Marks a chance to prove herself as a capable ambassador.
