Press Releases: Deputy Secretary Sullivan’s Meetings on Economic Engagement With South Africa


Readout

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
March 16, 2019


The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino:

During his visit to Johannesburg and Pretoria March 13-16, Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan met with South African business leaders and experts to discuss priority economic issues in South Africa, including enhancing the business climate to create conditions for greater U.S. commercial engagement. Deputy Secretary Sullivan welcomed the opportunity to engage directly with these economic and business thought-leaders on issues that affect the U.S.-South Africa trade and investment relationship.

Deputy Secretary Sullivan also discussed the importance of ensuring a level playing field for business with South African Minister of Trade and Industry Rob Davies. The Deputy Secretary noted that South Africa is the United States’ most developed trade and investment partner on the continent and underscored that U.S. business brings long-term benefits for South Africa and South Africans.






Press Releases: The Passing of His Excellency Virachai Plasai Ambassador of the Kingdom of Thailand to the United States of America


Press Statement

Robert Palladino

Deputy Spokesperson

Washington, DC
March 16, 2019


On behalf of the United States of America, I offer heartfelt condolences on the passing of His Excellency Ambassador Virachai Plasai to his family, friends, and the people of Thailand.

Ambassador Virachai is remembered by many as a stalwart friend of the United States, working tirelessly to further the U.S.-Thai relationship and advance the prosperity and security of both our nations. Ambassador Virachai previously served as the Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Thailand to the United Nations in New York where he did much to exert Thai leadership globally. He was an avid musician, bringing the beauty of His Late Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej’s musical compositions to many Americans.

Ambassador Virachai will be greatly missed. The United States will long remember his leadership and contributions to his country and the world.






Press Releases: Special Representative Elliott Abrams To Discuss Venezuelan Crisis With Russian, Italian Officials


Media Note

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
March 16, 2019


Special Representative for Venezuela Elliott Abrams will meet with Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov and other Russian officials in Rome March 18-19 to discuss the deteriorating situation in Venezuela.  Special Representative Abrams will also meet with Italian officials, including Prime Minister Diplomatic Advisor Pietro Benassi.  






Press Releases: Deputy Secretary Sullivan’s Meeting With Former South African President Motlanthe


Readout

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
March 16, 2019


The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino:

On March 14, while in Johannesburg, Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan met with former South African President Kgalema Motlanthe to discuss the U.S.-South African bilateral relationship.

The two also discussed President Motlanthe’s role as chairman of the Commission of Inquiry into Zimbabwe’s August 2018 post-election violence, and the need for meaningful political and economic reforms in Zimbabwe.






Press Releases: Deputy Secretary Sullivan’s Meeting With the U.S.-South Africa Working Group on African and Global Issues


Readout

Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
March 16, 2019


The below is attributable to Deputy Spokesperson Robert Palladino:

Deputy Secretary of State John J. Sullivan led the U.S. delegation to the U.S.-South Africa Working Group on Africa and Global Issues. Deputy Secretary Sullivan and Director General Mahoai discussed ways to deepen bilateral cooperation, as well as issues on the United Nations Security Council agenda. The Deputy Secretary emphasized the importance of advancing the bilateral trade relationship and expanding commercial ties between the United States and South Africa.

They also discussed regional and global peace and security, including developments in Zimbabwe, Venezuela, Iran, and North Korea. The United States and South Africa pledged to continue pursuing their shared goals of peace and prosperity on the African continent and around the world.