Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
13 November 2024 | 13:03 CAT
1-minute read

Image: EWN

Rasool, who served as South Africa’s ambassador to the US under Obama’s administration, will be returning to Washington as ambassador for the second Trump presidency.

In his role, Rasool will be responsible for repairing South Africa’s relationship with the states- a role upon which a lot depends. In an interview on Radio Islam International, Rasool said that improving ties with the US will secure the African Growth and Opportunities Act, the US$50 billion worth of economic investment and the jobs of the 200 000 South Africans who work for US companies.

His work as ambassador is likely to be significantly more difficult now than when he was there in the same capacity under Barack Obama.

“It’s significantly more difficult because under the Obama administration, you had a modicum of solidarity politically between South Africa and the US because of the anti-apartheid struggle. But with the Trump administration. I think we didn’t adjust our diplomatic stance,” Rasool said.

He cited the need for a “transactional” approach and said the focus should be on economic diplomacy to foster a constructive relationship.

South Africa’s support for Palestine and its perceived alignment with Russia over the Ukraine conflict have altered diplomatic dynamics with the US – something  Rasool says will necessitate a clear strategy for South Africa to assert its own national interests.

Rasool’s views have not gone without criticism. Former opposition leader Tony Leon recently questioned whether Trump would be receptive to Rasool, recalling the ambassador’s past critical comments about Trump. However, Rasool emphasised the strategic necessity of building a transactional foundation with the US, pointing to critical minerals and other economic opportunities as areas of potential collaboration.

On a personal note, Rasool acknowledged the sacrifices involved in returning to Washington with his family, particularly for his wife, an executive life coach who recently published her first book. Nonetheless, the couple remains committed to South Africa’s progress, he affirmed, underscoring his dedication to the country’s post-corruption recovery.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.