sanews - 23 days ago

Lamola remembers late Ambassador Mthethwa for his lifelong service to SA Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has conveyed the nation’s collective grief following the passing of South Africa’s Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa, who said he left a legacy of dedication and service to the country. Lamola conveyed his condolences during an emotional official memorial service on Friday, attended by family representatives, diplomats, and colleagues which served as a reminder of the profound impact Ambassador Mthethwa had on South Africa’s diplomatic landscape. “Our gathering here is a sombre reminder that Ambassador Nkosinathi Emmanuel Mthethwa is no more. “More than a week ago, our nation received the harrowing news of Ambassador Mthethwa’s passing. We have indeed suffered a monumental loss,” Lamola said. The late Ambassador passed away in the French capital on 30 September 2025, at the age of 58. “He was faithful to the cause, the people and their hopes of a better tomorrow. He had a remarkable appreciation for the intersecting struggles of youth, workers and the people as a whole. A recurring theme in his lifelong service is unwavering dedication and loyalty to the people and our nation.“ At the time of his death, Ambassador Mthethwa served as South Africa’s highest-ranking diplomat in France, where his efforts significantly strengthened the bilateral relations between South Africa and France. Lamola highlighted Mthethwa’s achievements since he assumed his role in 2023, emphasising the Ambassador’s commitment to enhancing ties and transforming global power relations. “The news of his passing shook us profoundly, reminding us of the fragility of life and the fleeting nature of time,” Lamola said, as he reflected on the Ambassador’s contributions to both countries. The Minister noted that Ambassador Mthethwa was honoured by French officials, including his counterpart, Jean-Noël Barrot, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France. Barrot referred to Mthethwa as “a friend of France” and emphasised his contributions to strengthening the relationship between the two nations. The longstanding partnership between South Africa and France has seen immense growth since the normalisation of relations in 1994. Lamola noted that South Africa has become a key destination for French exports to sub-Saharan Africa, accounting for 16% of the total, with trade relations bolstered by significant investments since the pandemic. “Trade between our countries has grown steadily since the pandemic... These exchanges reflect more than figures. They tell a story of partnership, respect and shared progress,” Lamola told mourners. He underscored the importance of Ambassador Mthethwa’s role in facilitating these interactions through initiatives like the South Africa Investment Conference in Paris. The Minister also recalled Ambassador Mthethwa’s firm stance on international issues, such as Western Sahara, where he reiterated South Africa’s support for the self-determination of the Western Sahara people. “For his service and devotion, we owe him a great debt of gratitude,” Lamola stated, recognising the Ambassador’s dedication to critical global human rights discussions. He said his journey was characterised by unwavering loyalty to the people of South Africa, having been a prominent activist during the anti-apartheid struggle. He played a crucial role as a member of the South African Youth Congress and the African National Congress Youth League, contributing to the dismantling of apartheid and promoting democracy in South Africa. “As an activist in the wave of youth resistance in the 1980s. Ambassador Mthethwa can be rightly counted as part of a generation that struck the final blow to apartheid,” Lamola said. Lamola took the time to celebrate the Ambassador’s vital role in South Africa’s transition to democracy. – SAnews.gov.za
Gabisile Fri, 10/10/2025 - 14:46 256 views

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