Botschaft, Topnews
10. Dezember 2015
The time has come for me to say good-bye to Germany and the Embassy of the Republic of South Africa in Berlin. I will return to my home in South Africa this month (December 2015). Of course I will miss the Embassy and this beautiful but cold country. I have made many friends here. Thank you for your hospitality.
As a seasoned political activist at home as well as a keen student of history, I found my task reasonably easy to do. But I had to learn the ways of diplomatic parlance and decorum. I apologize for any slips I may have committed. There was no malice behind my actions and decisions. I hope I have been able to add something to the warm and cordial relationship between our two countries.
During my service I have witnessed the change of government, more focussing of policy on renewable energy, refocussing on the relationship with the African Continent and also how Germany took firm leadership in European economic challenges as well as a the global political level. The current crisis of migrants and refugees was dealt with decisively. All these things made South Africa proud to have a partner like Germany with whom we shared a lot of common values.
I was not sure about the wisdom of sending an old man as Ambassador to such an important country. With hindsight I now understand the ANC´s choice. A veteran and senior politician is better placed to serve one´s country in faraway countries. The knowledge and experience acquired over decades equips one to be firm on principles and yet to be flexible in strategy and tactics.
There is no place for “green horns” in this service especially in these dynamic times. Political maturity and experience places South Africa on a good footing to engage the host country as equals (eye-to-eye level) always guided by each other’s national interests which are never identical. I hope I have been able to live up to my country´s expectations during my placement.
I wish you all a peaceful festive period and a prosperous and brighter future.
God Bless Us All.
Kindest Regards,
Revd Dr Makhenkesi Arnod Stofile,
Ambassador, Berlin