Cabinet not worried about US Visa revocations, says Ntshavheni

Minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, stated that Cabinet ministers are not entirely worried about the prospect of having their visas revoked by the United States, even as tensions appear to simmer between the two nations.

Ntshavheni made the comments while responding to questions regarding the fallout from the G20 Leaders’ Summit between South Africa and the US, as well as the recent decision by the former Trump Administration to revoke the visa of former Minister Naledi Pandor.

No Tensions, Just Diplomatic Matters
Despite the diplomatic incidents, Ntshavheni insisted that there are no tensions between South Africa and the US and that G20 discussions will proceed as planned.

Regarding the specific case of the revoked visa, Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni said Naledi Pandor’s visa cancellation is a matter that the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will have to address. Pandor had previously reported that no reasons were given for the cancellation of her multi-entry visitor’s visa.

Revocations Won't "Change the Price of Bread"
Ntshavheni emphasised the Cabinet's lack of concern about the US government potentially targeting other members.

"If they revoke whoever, like any other country when they decide you come in, give you a visa or not give you a visa, it doesn’t change the price of bread. Even if they revoke my visa it’s fine."

She added that most South African ministers do not frequently visit the US for state or business visits, aside from attending United Nations meetings in New York.