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US ambassador discusses Cofnas with De Sutter, order remains in effect

Ambassador Bill White spoke with Rector Petra De Sutter about Nathan Cofnas, who was suspended as a precaution.

28 August 2026Tagblick Newsdesk

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Archive photo: US ambassador discusses Cofnas with De Sutter, order remains in effect — Archive photoPhoto: U.S. Embassy The Hague · Flickr · PDM

Bill White, the US ambassador, recently contacted Rector Petra De Sutter of Ghent University (UGent) regarding the case of researcher Nathan Cofnas. This was confirmed by UGent to the news agency Belga.

White expressed satisfaction with the outcome of Cofnas' precautionary suspension. He shared his remarks on the situation on social media platform X, emphasizing that he appreciates the developments positively.

According to various sources, White also spoke directly with Cofnas. The ambassador appears pleased with the progress of the conversation with the university.

During the discussion, White expressed hope that cooperation between the US embassy and UGent can continue. He conveyed his satisfaction with how the issue has been handled by De Sutter.

The Cofnas case has previously caused controversy, and White's comments indicate that his involvement in the matter continues. He looks forward to further collaboration, according to the account of the discussions.

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