Obama welcomes Rasool as ambassador

United States President Barack Obama has extended a warm welcome to Ebrahim Rasool, who has been appointed South African ambassador to the US. Rasool officially assumed his ambassadorial responsibilities on August 11, 2010.

In accepting Rasool’s Letter of Credence, Obama said he looked forward to a chance to further strengthen the ties between the two countries. He also gave a word of encouragement to South Africa on the successful hosting of the 2010 FIFA World Cup. "The Cup was a testament to all South Africa has achieved since 1994 and all that it - and all of Africa - has to offer," said Obama.

Rasool outlined his mandate to foster stronger interaction between SA and the US through the Co-operative Partnership initiative. The initiative, aimed at making economic development the driver of global growth, is largely based on the achievement of an enduring peace and stability in the world.

Rasool thanked the US for its role in supporting development in Africa – a continent Obama had previously referred to as "a fundamental part of our interconnected world."

"This agenda can be advanced if, amongst others, the USA supports the African Union's endorsement earlier this year of South Africa's candidature for the United Nation Security Council," added Rasool.

Obama acknowledged the areas of cooperation between the two countries, and hoped more strides would be made in the fields of health, education, climate change and trade.

Rasool has taken over from Welile Nhlapo. His appointment was hotly contested by the Democratic Alliance, claiming he had corrupt dealings with journalists while he was Premier of the Western Cape. However, there was no hint of the scandal when he presented his credentials to US.

SABC News

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