Image Source: Engineering News
World – Former Deputy Finance Minister Mcebisi Jonas has pledged to promote a stable, constructive relationship between South Africa and the United States. He will serve as the official representative of the President and the South African government.
President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed Jonas’s appointment as his Special Envoy, stating that he has been entrusted with advancing South Africa’s diplomatic, trade, and bilateral interests.
Jonas is expected to lead high-level negotiations, strengthen strategic partnerships, and engage with US government officials and private-sector leaders.
“As a former Deputy Finance Minister of South Africa, Mr Jonas brings extensive governmental experience to his new diplomatic role. Concurrently, he holds the position of Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the MTN Group, a role he will maintain alongside his responsibilities as my Special Envoy.”
“This appointment underscores his distinguished career and continued commitment to advancing South Africa’s national and economic interests.”
In response to his appointment, Jonas expressed gratitude for the confidence shown in him by the President. He acknowledged the complexities of the current global environment and the political tensions between South Africa and the United States.
“I am fully cognisant of the difficulties that lie ahead, considering recent global developments. However, I believe that areas of commonality and mutual interest could be embraced to reaffirm the long-standing ties between our two countries.
“There are no quick fixes in such a complex situation. I appeal that, in the national interest, South Africans exercise patience and allow us time and space to engage fully with different stakeholders in the United States and South Africa.”
President Ramaphosa described Jonas as an eminent national leader and highlighted his previous role as one of four Presidential Investment Envoys appointed in 2018 to facilitate investment into South Africa.
He reiterated that the relationship between South Africa and the US is strategically important and must be preserved through mutual respect, the recognition of sovereignty, and a commitment to the shared interests of both nations.
