<\/p>\n
America\u2019s new ambassador to South Africa struck a conciliatory note in a video message to the country that contrasted sharply with the bellicose comments made by US President Donald Trump.<\/p>\n
Brent Bozell presented his\u00a0credentials\u00a0to South Africa\u2019s foreign ministry on Monday, more than a year after Reuben Brigety stepped down as envoy.<\/p>\n
Read:
US nominates Brent Bozell as ambassador to SA
Targeted by Trump, South Africa seeks to reset trade relations
US ambassador to South Africa sworn in<\/p>\n
Pretoria and Washington have been at odds since Trump reclaimed the presidency in January 2025 and set about reshaping US relations with allies and foes alike.<\/p>\n
Trump has falsely accused Pretoria of subjecting white farmers to a genocide, and has criticised its relations with Iran and Hamas.<\/p>\n
The US president also subjected South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to a humiliating dressing down when he visited the White House last year.<\/p>\n
Read:
Trump\u2019s ambush of Ramaphosa leaves SA reeling
Prized Oval Office visits with Trump become perilous tests of nerve
A diplomatic tightrope: Inside the Ramaphosa-Trump meeting
South Africa expels top Israeli diplomat, risking US ire
US criticises South Africa\u2019s expulsion of top Israeli diplomat<\/p>\n
\u201cWe face challenges \u2013 yes, and some are serious,\u201d Bozell said in a video message posted on X. \u201cBut strong relationships are built not on the weight of those challenges, but on the power of shared purpose.<\/p>\n
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CONTINUE READING BELOW<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
\u201cAs the United States marks 250 years of independence, I\u2019m reminded that liberty, justice, and human dignity are not just American ideals \u2013 they are universal aspirations.<\/p>\n
\u201cI look forward to honouring that legacy alongside South Africa as we build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous future together.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nMore than 500 US companies are invested in South Africa, where thousands of Americans work and live, Bozell said.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
The US ranks as South Africa\u2019s biggest trading partner after China, with two-way flows estimated at $21.6 billion in 2024 (close to R354 billion at today\u2019s exchange rate).<\/p>\n
\nAs the United States marks 250 years of independence, I\u2019m reminded that liberty, justice, and human dignity are not just American ideals \u2014 they are universal aspirations.<\/p>\n
I look forward to honoring that legacy alongside South Africa as we build a safer, stronger, and more\u2026 pic.twitter.com\/CQTzLMjxnX<\/a><\/p>\n
\u2014 U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa (@USAmbRSA) February 24, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n
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CONTINUE READING BELOW<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\u201cI believe our two countries stand at a moment of promise where cooperation can unlock tremendous growth, stability and expanded opportunity,\u201d Bozell said.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe will work constructively where our interests align and where our common values: freedom, fairness and the rule of law light the path ahead.\u201d<\/p>\n
\nToday, I was honored to make my first trip to KwaZulu-Natal.<\/p>\n
During my visit, I met Consulate Durban\u2019s dedicated staff, as well as representatives from Durban\u2019s business community, to explore KZN\u2019s extraordinary potential and dynamic economy.<\/p>\n
Thank you to everyone for the warm\u2026 pic.twitter.com\/nn88w7l9OY<\/a><\/p>\n
\u2014 U.S. Ambassador to the Republic of South Africa (@USAmbRSA) February 24, 2026<\/a><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\u00a9 2026 Bloomberg<\/p>\n
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