The South African government has confirmed the death of its ambassador to France, Emmanuel Nkosinathi Mthethwa, terming his demise a "national loss", which has also been "felt within the international community."

According to French media, Ambassador Mthethwa, 58, was found dead on Tuesday outside Hyatt Hotel in the capital Paris after reportedly jumping from the building's 22nd floor.

The envoy had been reported missing on Monday.

South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa offered his "deep condolences to Ambassador Mthethwa's wife, Philisiwe Buthelezi, and the ambassador's extended family," the presidency said in a statement on Tuesday.

Investigation into circumstances of death

President Ramaphosa added that the ambassador's life "ended prematurely and traumatically."

"In his last tenure of service he (Mthethwa) has facilitated the deepening of relations between South and the Republic of France, which has produced benefits for individuals and businesses in both countries and advanced our cooperation in the global arena," the head of state said.

For its part, South Africa's foreign ministry said in a statement on Tuesday that French authorities had opened an investigation into the "circumstances" of Mthethwa's "untimely death."

"Ambassador Mthethwa was a distinguished servant of the nation, whose career was marked by dedicated service in critical ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Police and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture," the foreign ministry's statement said.

'Immense grief'

Pretoria said that Mthethwa, who was appointed South Africa's envoy to Paris in December 2023, had been tasked with "strengthening the vital partnership and bilateral ties between South Africa and France."

"I have no doubt that his passing is not only a national loss but is also felt within the international diplomatic community," Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said.

"The Government of South Africa extends its deepest and most sincere condolences to the family of Ambassador Mthethwa, and to his friends and colleagues during this period of immense grief. He is survived by his wife and children," the foreign ministry said, adding that: "We honour his legacy of unwavering patriotism and service to our nation."

Besides serving in several ministerial portfolios previously, Mthethwa also served on the Board of Directors for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee. That year's football tournament was held in South Africa, marking the first time Africa was hosting the coveted competition.

Long-serving member of ANC

Mthethwa was also a long-serving member of South Africa's largest political party, the African National Congress (ANC). He held separate leadership roles in ANC.

"His lifelong commitment to public duty was further exemplified by his longstanding contribution to the African National Congress (ANC) through its highest decision-making structures," the South African government said in the Tuesday statement.