LAMOLA IN WASHINGTON AS US VISA DISPUTE DEEPENS
WASHINGTON DC: International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola has arrived in Washington, DC, for engagements with US lawmakers and other stakeholders, days after the US announced targeted visa restrictions linked to its allegations about South Africa’s race and land policies.
MDN NEWS previously reported on tighter US visa screening. The latest restrictions are a separate policy, and Washington has not publicly named anyone affected.
South Africa rejects the US characterisation of its domestic policies. Lamola is expected to travel to New York for the UN General Assembly after his Washington engagements.
The UN General Assembly is scheduled to take place from 22 to 28 September, with more than 100 heads of state and government expected to attend.
South Africa is expected to advance its positions on multilateralism and reform of global institutions during the gathering.
Lamola’s US visit therefore places him at the centre of diplomatic engagements between Pretoria and Washington at a time when the two countries are dealing with significant disagreements over domestic policy, sovereignty and bilateral relations.
