On April 16, 2025, the Council of Ministers of Spain announced the appointment of José Manuel Pascual García as the new ambassador to South Africa. He replaces Raimundo Robredo, who has been stationed in Pretoria since 2022. Pascual, a seasoned diplomat, has a wealth of experience in international relations and law.
Graduating in Law from the University of Salamanca, Pascual has been a career diplomat since 2002. His early career saw him working in the General Secretariat of European Affairs during the Spanish Presidency of the Council of the European Union in the first half of 2002. He later served as deputy to the Director General of Internal Market and other Community Policies.
Between 2012 and 2013, Pascual was an advisor in the Cabinet of the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs. He then held the position of Chief of Staff, with the rank of Director General, in the Presidency of the Constitutional Court from 2013 to 2016. His expertise in legal matters was further recognized when he chaired the Working Group on the Law of the Sea in Brussels during the second half of 2023, a significant role during Spain's Presidency of the European Union.
Pascual's international assignments include a tenure as a counselor in the Embassy of Spain in Portugal from 2007 to 2012, and as second in command in the Spanish Embassies in Libya from 2004 to 2007, Brazil from 2016 to 2020, and South Africa from 2020 to 2023. His diplomatic career has earned him several accolades, including the Medal of the Constitutional Court and the Police Merit Cross with White Distinction, along with the Crosses of Officer and Commendations of the Orders of Civil Merit and Isabel la Católica.
In addition to Pascual's appointment, the Council of Ministers also appointed three other ambassadors on April 16. María Cristina Pérez Gutiérrez will take over as ambassador in Granada, where she previously served as the ambassador in Trinidad and Tobago. Guillermo Marín Gorbea will transition from his role as ambassador in Ivory Coast to lead the mission in Liberia. Meanwhile, Ángel Lossada Torres-Quevedo is moving from his ambassadorship in Ghana to take charge of the mission in the Togolese Republic.
The appointments reflect Spain's ongoing commitment to strengthening its diplomatic presence across various regions. With these new ambassadors, Spain aims to enhance its international relations and foster cooperation in critical areas such as trade, security, and cultural exchange.
The Spanish government has emphasized the importance of these roles in promoting Spain's interests abroad, especially in regions where diplomatic ties are crucial for economic and political stability. As the world continues to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, the appointments of seasoned diplomats like Pascual and his colleagues are seen as strategic moves to bolster Spain's influence globally.
In light of recent global developments, the new ambassadors will face the challenge of addressing pressing issues such as climate change, international trade disputes, and security threats. Their experience and diplomatic acumen will be vital in navigating these challenges and representing Spain's interests effectively.
As the new ambassador to South Africa, Pascual will be tasked with strengthening bilateral relations between Spain and South Africa, which have historical ties and a growing partnership in various sectors, including trade, investment, and cultural exchange. His extensive background in law and international affairs will be instrumental in addressing the complexities of these relations.
In summary, the appointments of José Manuel Pascual García and his fellow ambassadors mark a significant step in Spain's diplomatic strategy. With their collective experience and expertise, they are poised to make meaningful contributions to Spain's foreign policy objectives and enhance its standing on the global stage.
