Mbalula meets US ambassador, says he apologised again for outburst

“The ambassador reiterated his apology as conveyed by [minister] Naledi Pandor. While the meeting was cordial, the secretary-general firmly reiterated the centrality of the ANC’s approach to international relations.

“This a position rooted in the National Democratic Revolution [NDR] and is directed by its historical mission and the principle of the Freedom Charter that 'There shall be peace and friendship'.”

The ANC said Mbalula and Brigety “discussed the importance of the relationship between the people of South Africa and the people of the United States of America”.

“While there may be points of divergence, we remain committed to diplomatic engagements to resolve challenges on our shared interests. The meeting agreed to a follow-up bilateral meeting with the ANC’s NEC subcommittee on international relations.

“The ANC will continue engaging with members of the diplomatic corps, as we believe that through dialogue, we can bring resolution to our collective challenges.”

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