US President Donald Trump’s pick for ambassador to South Africa, conservative activist and writer Leo Brent Bozell III, on Monday presented his credentials to South Africa’s government.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
South Africa’s foreign affairs ministry said in a statement that Bozell had presented his letters of credence to Clayson Monyela, a deputy director-general.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bozell arrived in the country earlier this month, at a time of strained relations between Washington and Pretoria.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Trump has accused South Africa of persecuting its white minority, criticised its ties with Russia and China, imposed steep tariffs on its exports and cut all aid.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pretoria strongly rejects claims that its white minority is persecuted.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bozell said in his Senate confirmation hearing in October that he would approach his ambassadorship “with respect for the South African people”, and that he saw “real opportunity for a lasting partnership” despite areas of disagreement.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
South Africa has not had an ambassador in Washington since the Trump administration expelled its last one.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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