Posts in category: Media Statement

President Cyril Ramaphosa will this afternoon, 11 December 2024, receive the United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG), His Excellency António Guterres at Mahlamba Ndlopfu, the President’s Official Residence in Pretoria. The UN Secretary-General’s Courtesy Call on President Ramaphosa and a meeting today with the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, takes place in the context of the UN leader’s mission to Southern Africa, which

South Africa welcomes Amnesty International’s report, which has exposed the genocide against the Palestinian people in occupied Gaza. Amnesty International, a reputable and fiercely independent non-governmental organization, is known for its rigorous and detailed reports. This latest report is no exception. The findings of this report affirm South Africa’s case before the International Court of Justice and align with the following reports from the United

A. Issues in the environment Group of Twenty (G20) Summit 1.1.  South Africa officially assumed the Presidency of the G20 on 1 December 2024, making it the first country on the African continent to lead the premier forum. The theme of G20 South Africa is “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”. 1.2.  Hosting the G20 offers our nation an unprecedented opportunity to position South Africa as a global

President Cyril Ramaphosa will, at the invitation of His Excellency, Mr Abdelmadjid Tebboune, President of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, undertake a State Visit to Algeria from 5 to 7 December 2024. The two Heads of State will co-chair the Seventh Session of the South Africa-Algeria Binational Commission (BNC). President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead a delegation comprising Ministers, senior officials and business leaders. South

South Africa condemns in the strongest possible terms the heinous massacres committed by the Israeli Defence Force across Gaza yesterday, which killed approximately 100 Palestinians, mostly women and children. In one of the massacres, 75 Palestinians from two families were killed in air strikes on two homes in the northern Gaza town of Beit Lahia. Israel prevented ambulances and rescue teams from reaching the site

President Cyril Ramaphosa will co-chair the 11th Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between South Africa and the Federal Republic of Nigeria with His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission will take place next week Tuesday, 3 December 2024, during the working visit by His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at Tuynhuys in Cape Town. South Africa and Nigeria are this

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Thandi Moraka, will co-host the Sixth South Africa-Vietnam Partnership Forum with the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Ms Nguyen Minh Hang, on Tuesday, 27 November 2024, in Pretoria. It is expected that the Sixth Partnership Forum will reflect on the dynamically growing relations between South Africa and Vietnam. Key topics

The Deputy Minister Alvin Botes will co-chair the South Africa-Poland Political Consultations with his counterpart, HE Mr Andrzej Szejna, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, on 29 November 2024, in Warsaw, Poland. The consultations will provide an opportunity for the Deputy Minister and his counterpart to review the state of bilateral political relations with a view to

South Africa will be participating, and serving as a Vice-President, in the Fifth Review Conference of the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production, and Transfer of Antipersonnel Mines (Mine Ban Treaty), in Siem Reap, Cambodia. The Mine Ban Treaty is a multilateral treaty that aims to eliminate anti-personnel landmines given their indiscriminate nature and the humanitarian consequences they cause. Adopted in 1997

The South African Government joins the international community in commemorating the 47th United Nations International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, as well as renewing South Africa’s shared commitment to a just and lasting solution to the question of Palestine. This year, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald O. Lamola will participate in the event and will witness the unveiling of

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, arrived in Bern, Switzerland, on Sunday, 24 November 2024, for the 11th Meeting of the South Africa-Switzerland High-Level Consultations (HLC). The meeting provides a platform for the two governments to review the status of bilateral relations, explore new partnership opportunities and exchange insights on global and regional issues of mutual concern. Mr Alexandre Fasel,

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Thandi Moraka, has expressed optimism about the potential for greater collaboration between South Africa and countries affiliated to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Deputy Minister Moraka was speaking in Jakarta, Indonesia, where she participated in the Second Meeting of the ASEAN-South Africa Joint Cooperation Committee (ASA-JCC) on Thursday, 21 November 2024. The purpose of

The South African Government welcomes the ICC’s recent warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Minister of Defence Yoav Gallant, and Mohammed Deif of Hamas. These actions mark a significant step towards justice for crimes against humanity and war crimes in Palestine. South Africa reaffirms its commitment to international law and urges all state parties to act in accordance with their obligations in the Rome

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will hold Bilateral Consultations with his Italian counterpart, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr Edmondo Cirielli. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 21 November 2024, in Rome, Italy. It is expected that the Second Bilateral Consultations will renew relations between South Africa and Italy. Deputy Minister Botes said: “Long-standing bilateral

On behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Wednesday, 20 November 2024, participate in the Extraordinary Meeting of SADC Heads of State and Government, in Harare, capital city of the Republic of Zimbabwe. The Summit will, amongst others, receive an update on the security situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this evening ,16 November 2024, arrived in the Federative Republic of Brazil to lead South Africa’s participation at the Group of Twenty (G20) Leaders’ Summit taking place in Rio de Janeiro. The Rio G20 Leaders’ Summit will be held under the theme Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet between 18 and 19 November 2024. On Sunday, 17 November 2024,

The South African Government condemns in the strongest possible terms the continued acts of aggression carried out by the State of Israel on the Syrian Arab Republic. The recent attack of 14 November 2024 in the Damascus suburb of Mazzeh, in proximity to the South African Embassy, other diplomatic missions and United Nations offices, is a blatant disregard of international law and the sovereignty of

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South Africa is dismayed to note a statement attributed to Mr Bezalel Smotrich, Israel’s Minister of Finance, on 12 November 2024, in which he has ordered preparations for the annexation of the occupied West Bank. This development is compounded by a decision adopted by the Israeli Cabinet on 18 June 2024, which gave Minister Smotrich approval to plan construction in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT).

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will, tomorrow, 8 November 2024, attend the inauguration of His Excellency President Duma Boko at the National Stadium in Gaborone, Botswana. President Boko was elected after his party, the Umbrella for Democratic Change, successfully won the 13th General Elections held on 30 October 2024. The Deputy President is attending the inauguration as delegated by President Cyril Ramaphosa who following the

Today, Wednesday, 6 November 2024, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, had a telephone call with his Mozambican counterpart, Minister Verónica Macamo, and reflected on the current security situation in Mozambique, following the recent general elections. Mozambique is experiencing outbreaks of protests in the aftermath of the general elections. South Africa expresses concern at the outbreak of incidents of post-electoral violence

President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, 5 November 2024, receive a Courtesy Call from the Prince of Wales, of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK) at Genadendal, Official Residence of the President in Cape Town. The Prince of Wales is in South Africa to host the Fourth Annual Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony, on 6 November 2024. The Earthshot Prize is a remarkable

Today, 2 November 2024, President Cyril Ramaphosa held a telephone call with President-Elect Duma Boko and offered his warm congratulations to His Excellency and the Government and people of the Republic of Botswana on the success of the recently concluded elections. President Ramaphosa once again commended the Umbrella for Democratic Change coalition on its success in the election under the leadership of President-Elect Boko. President

South Africa welcomes the convening and the outcome of the Sixth Conference of States Parties (CSP) to the African Nuclear Weapons Free Zone Treaty (Pelindaba Treaty) held from 24 to 25 October 2024 at the Headquarters of the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. States Parties to the Treaty reaffirmed their commitment to the Pelindaba Treaty and noted with concern recent events and actions that

President Cyril Ramaphosa will today, Tuesday 29 October 2024, host His Excellency President, Dr Nanogold Mbumba of the Republic of Namibia for a Working Visit to the Republic of South Africa at the Genadendal, the Official Residence of the President in Cape Town. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries and to consolidate the strong ties whose foundation was forged during

President Cyril Ramaphosa extends his personal congratulations and those of the South African Government to Ghana’s Foreign Minister, The Honourable Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, on her recent appointment as the next Commonwealth Secretary-General. Ms Botchwey will assume her four-year leadership of the 56-nation association on 1 April 2025. President Ramaphosa offers Ms Botchwey his warm congratulations and support for her term of office. President Ramaphosa said:

South Africa has filed its Memorial to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) today, 28 October 2024, in its case on the Application of the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in the Gaza Strip (South Africa vs. Israel). In accordance with the Rules of Court, the Memorial may not be made public. The filing of this memorial takes place

On 20 August 2023, ahead of the South African Chaired XV BRICS Summit, President Cyril Ramaphosa delivered an address to the nation on South Africa’s foreign policy. In the address, President Ramaphosa articulated the principles and values that shape our foreign policy and inform our international relations when he said: “Before the dawn of democracy in 1994, the apartheid South African state was a pariah

President Cyril Ramaphosa has welcomed the release of preliminary results of the General Elections in Mozambique by the National Electoral Commission (CNE). The general elections were held in Mozambique on 9 October 2024. The Mozambican Constitutional Council is expected to validate and proclaim the electoral results in the next 14 days. Based on the preliminary results, President Ramaphosa offers his warm congratulations to President-Elect Daniel

South Africa strongly condemns Israel’s attack on Iran, which seeks to foment war in the Middle East. This attack is an unacceptable violation of Iran’s sovereignty. In addition to the genocide in Gaza, Israel’s bombardment of Lebanon and systematic annexation of the West Bank have led to a grave and worsening humanitarian crisis in the Middle East. South Africa remains steadfast in its call for

Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his visit to Pescara, Italy, where he participated in the G7 Development Ministerial Meeting of Outreach Countries and International Organisations. The meeting took place on 23 and 24 October 2024. The outreach sessions of the G7 have been a steady feature of the Group, aimed at strengthening unity among G7 members and like-minded

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A. Issues for the environment Safety and Security 1.1. Food borne illness and fatalities 1.1.1.  Cabinet was briefed on the food borne illnesses and fatalities recorded in various parts of the country, which have led to the tragic deaths of children and resulted in several hospitalisations in Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State. 1.1.2.  The President will address the Nation on the interventions

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning, Tuesday, 22 October 2024, arrived in Kazan in the Russian Federation to lead South Africa’s participation in the XVI BRICS Summit. The summit is held from 22 to 24 October 2024 under the theme, Strengthening Multilateralism for Just Global Development and Security. President Ramaphosa will commence his programme this afternoon, 22 October 2024, with a Bilateral Meeting with President

The U.S. Embassy in Pretoria hosted the 14th U.S.-South Africa Annual Bilateral Forum (ABF) on 7 October 2024, co-chaired by Ambassador Maud Dlomo, Deputy Director-General: Americas and Europe at DIRCO, and U.S. Ambassador Dr Reuben E. Brigety, II. The ABF is a cornerstone of the U.S.-South Africa Strategic Partnership, reinforcing collaboration aligned with the U.S. Strategy toward Sub-Saharan Africa and South Africa’s National Development Plan.

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Thandi Moraka, will lead a South African delegation to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2024) scheduled to take place in Apia, Samoa, from 25 to 26 October 2024. This year’s CHOGM will be convened under the theme, Our Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Commonwealth. A Pre-CHOGM Foreign Affairs Minister Meeting (CFAMM) will be held

Your Excellency, President Vladimir Putin, Fellow BRICS Leaders, Distinguished guests, Ladies and gentlemen, It is a great honour to address the BRICS Business Forum as it meets to expand and diversify trade and investment between our countries. As a formation, BRICS has an important role in the world. It has the potential to drive significant change in the global economy and international relations. The historic

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) notes with concern the mischaracterisation of its engagements with the Taipei Liaison Office (TLO). South Africa’s democratic Government severed political and diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1997. This is consistent with resolution 2758 of the United Nations General Assembly, which is widely adhered to by the international community. Relocating what will be rebranded as Trade Offices both

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Israel’s bombing of Lebanon is a serious violation of the territory of a sovereign state, and a grave violation of international law. The international community cannot afford to remain indifferent. Israel hit central Beirut on Thursday, reportedly killing 22 civilians and injuring over 117 more, in the deadliest attack on the city centre since the war against Lebanon began. The strikes hit a densely packed

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of Wednesday, 9 October 2024 A. Issues in the environment Economy 1.1. South Africa: An Investment Destination of Choice 1.1.1. Cabinet reflected on the positive investor sentiments emanating from President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile’s working visits to New York in the USA and London in the United Kingdom (UK), respectively. 1.1.2. The President’s programme, on the margins

  The Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Mr Zane Dangor, who serves as South Africa’s G20 Sherpa, will host consultations on the G20 with his African Union Commission (AUC) counterpart, HE Ambassador Albert Muchanga, G20 Sherpa and Commissioner of Economy, Trade, Tourism, Industry and Minerals (ETTIM). The meeting will take place on Thursday, 10 October 2024, in Pretoria. It is

President Cyril Ramaphosa will today Friday, 4 October 2024, undertake a Working Visit to the Kingdom of Lesotho at the invitation of King Letsie III to attend the 58th Lesotho Independence Day and Bicentennial Celebration. The Bicentennial Celebration of the founding of the Basotho Nation by Morena Moshoeshoe I and the Independence Day are being held today at the Setsoto Stadium, in Maseru. President Ramaphosa

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has today, Friday, 4 October 2024, concluded a successful Working Visit to the United Kingdom. The purpose of the visit was to identify new trade and investment opportunities to grow the South African economy in partnership with the United Kingdom. Some of the areas of interest are linked to supporting Governments strategic priorities in a number of sectors including trade,

The Government of South Africa is gravely concerned about the continuing escalation of military action by the State of Israel on the State of Palestine and the Lebanese Republic, as well as the subsequent response by the Islamic Republic of Iran on 1 October 2024. In this context, South Africa calls on all parties to exercise the utmost restraint and avoid any act that would

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has today, Sunday, 29 September 2024, arrived in London, United Kingdom of Great Britain (UK), for the second leg of his Working Visit, scheduled to take place on 30 September-04 October 2024. The purpose of the visit is to improve trade and investment relations between South Africa and the United Kingdom. This visit follows a successful Working Visit to Ireland,

The Government of the Republic of South Africa expresses its profound concern regarding the recent escalation of extrajudicial killings in the Middle East, most notably the tragic assassination of Hassan Nasrallah and other leaders in Lebanon. This follows a series of widespread and indiscriminate attacks on communication and other devices used by civilians, particularly in Lebanon. These attacks have resulted in numerous fatalities, including those

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile has today, Friday 27 September 2024, arrived in Dublin, Ireland, on a Working Visit aimed at reinforcing the historic and warm bilateral relations between South Africa and Ireland. The Working Visit is expected to advance cooperation between South Africa and Ireland, especially with regard to improving trade and investment, and building on the significant progress made in the fields of

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on 27 and 28 September 2024, undertake a Working Visit to Ireland. The visit is aimed at reinforcing South Africa’s historic and warm bilateral relations with Ireland. Upon arrival in Ireland, the Deputy President will meet his Irish counterpart, Prime Minister Simon Harris, to reaffirm the strong political and diplomatic ties between the two countries. South Africa and Ireland

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will participate at the 10th BRICS Ministers of Communications Meeting scheduled to take place on 26 and 27 September 2024 in Innopolis, Republic of Tatarstan, Russian Federation. Deputy Minister Botes said: “The meeting of BRICS Ministers of Communications is an important mechanism for coordinating and deepening cooperation between BRICS countries on key issues in

President Cyril Ramaphosa will today, Tuesday, 24 September 2024, address the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) in New York. The theme identified by the President of UNGA79 is, Unity in diversity, for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for everyone everywhere. The General Debate provides a platform for South Africa to highlight the importance of strengthening multilateralism and

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will co-chair the South Africa-Hungary Political Consultations with his counterpart, Mr Levente Magyar, Minister of State of the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, on Monday, 23 September 2024 in Budapest, Hungary. The meeting seeks to consolidate and further enhance diplomatic and political cooperation between South Africa and Hungary and deepen understanding of

President Cyril Ramaphosa will lead the South African delegation to the 79th Session of the United Nations General Debate and High-Level Week (UNGA79) in New York from 21-24 September 2024. This annual gathering of world leaders is the most important event on the UN calendar, with Heads of State and Government and Heads of International Organisations discussing global challenges and how to address these challenges

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr. Ronald Lamola, successfully concluded a productive Working Visit to Washington, D. C. During his visit, he engaged with key stakeholders, including the House of Representatives Subcommittee on Africa, the Congressional Black Caucus, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and various bipartisan think tanks. Minister Lamola emphasised the importance of the dynamic and evolving relationship between South Africa and the

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 18 September 2024 A. Issues in the environment Economy  1.1 Positive Economic Indicators 1.1.1 Cabinet welcomed positive economic indicators as per the data released by Statistics South Africa (StatsSA). 1.1.2 On the 3rd September 2024, StatsSA announced a 0.4 percent increase in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in the second quarter of 2024. This increase was influenced by improvement in

President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted the statement by the Government of the Republic of South Sudan extending the country’s transitional period by another two years. This effectively postpones the national elections initially due to take place on 22 December 2024. According to the announcement, the postponement is intended to provide time and space for the implementation of the remaining provisions of the 2018 Revitalised Agreement

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will visit Ireland, Hungary and Russia on a Working Visit from 18 to 27 September 2024. The Deputy Minister will commence his visit in Dublin, Ireland, where he will co-chair the Third South Africa-Ireland Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) with the Irish Minister of State of International Development and Diaspora, Mr Sean Flemming, on

South Africa congratulates President Tebboune and the people of Algeria on the outcome of the Presidential Election. South Africa extends congratulations to His Excellency President Abdelmadjid Tebboune on his successful re-election as President of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, following the conclusion of the Presidential Election held on 7 September 2024. The Algerian National Independent Electoral Authority and all national stakeholders are also congratulated

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, has arrived in Washington D.C. for a Working Visit from 12 to 19 September 2024. South Africa enjoys strategic relations with the US and has strong political, economic, and social ties. Bilateral cooperation with the US covers various issues aligned with South Africa’s domestic priorities and the National Development Plan. The US is also the

His Excellency Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Thursday, 12 September 2024, in his capacity as a Special Envoy to South Sudan, meet with the African Union (AU) Panel of the Wise, for the Panel to brief him on their regional diplomacy efforts to build consensus and support for the Government of the Republic of South Sudan in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement

South Africa will be filing its memorial to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) next month (October 2024). South Africa intends to provide facts and evidence to prove that Israel is committing the crime of genocide in Palestine. This case will continue until the court makes a finding. While the case is in progress, we hope that Israel will abide by the court’s provisional orders

A. Issues in the environment Economic imperatives Government remains steadfast in its quest to: grow the economy reduce unemployment; and create a more resilient investment climate. 1.1 Notable developments on economic-related imperatives: 1.1.1 Gross domestic product (GDP) growth Cabinet noted the slight increase in the growth of the South African economy by 0,4% in the second quarter of 2024, which sets a positive tone for

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his successful visit to Bali, Indonesia, where he participated in the High-Level Forum on Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships (HLF-MSP) and the Second Indonesia-Africa Forum (IAF) from 1 to 3 September 2024. The two events were convened under the theme, Bandung Spirit for Africa’s Agenda 2063. The objectives of the Second IAF were to: facilitate

At the invitation of HE President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China, HE President Cyril Ramaphosa of the Republic of South Africa paid a State Visit to China on 2 September 2024. During the State Visit, the two heads of state held talks in a cordial and friendly atmosphere and had an in-depth exchange of views on further developing China-South Africa and China-Africa

Minister Ronald Lamola and his Chinese counterpart, Minister Wang Yi, met in Beijing on Sunday to exchange views on bilateral, multilateral and geopolitical matters of mutual interest ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s second State Visit to China and the Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). In their first meeting, the Ministers discussed the enduring ties between the two nations, covering broad areas of

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will participate in the High-Level Forum on Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships (HLF-MSP) and the Second Indonesia-Africa Forum (Second IAF) in Bali, Indonesia, from 2-3 September 2024. The High-Level Forum on Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships (HLF-MSP) will facilitate discussions on how development cooperation and partnerships between stakeholders should be optimised to effectively ensure the attainment of the Sustainable Development

President Cyril Ramaphosa will at the invitation of His Excellency, President Xi Jinping, undertake a State Visit to the People’s Republic of China and participate at the Forum on China–Africa Cooperation Summit (FOCAC). The State Visit and FOCAC Summit will take place in Beijing from 2-5 September 2024. President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted President Xi Jinping on his Fourth State Visit to South Africa in August

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INVESTIGATION OF THE CONSULATE IN DUBAI The Department has acted on information from whistleblowers about alleged security breaches and misconduct. The Consul-General has been recalled from Dubai to Pretoria to respond to the preliminary investigation findings. The investigation is still ongoing. SOUTH AFRICA PURSUES SOLUTION WITH EQUATORIAL GUINEA ON CITIZENS INCARCERATED IN MALABO South Africa is deeply concerned about the ongoing detention of its citizens,

International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Ronald Lamola, is in Japan to attend the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Ministerial Meeting. Ahead of the opening ceremony of the TICAD Ministerial meeting, Minister Lamola had a business roundtable discussion with the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) to further strengthen economic cooperation. Among other matters, the meeting noted two critical economic developments. Following successful diplomatic negotiations,

A. Issues in the environment Building a Safer South Africa 1.1. Fight Against Crime 1.2. Cabinet welcomed the arrest of a 40-year-old suspect believed to be one of the ringleaders behind a kidnapping-for-ransom syndicate that is targeting businesspeople in South Africa. He is also suspected to be a key figure in the R300 million crystal meth drugs seized recently at the Johannesburg suburbs of Fourways

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President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning, 17 August 2024, arrived in Harare, in the Republic of Zimbabwe to attend the 44th Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government. The 44th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government will take place today under the theme, Promoting Innovation to unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and development towards an

Harare, Zimbabwe – On August 13 &14, 2024, the Southern African Development Community’s (SADC) Council of Ministers gathered in Harare to set the stage for the 44th Heads of State and Government Summit. The theme for the summit is, Promoting Innovation to unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and development towards an Industrialised SADC. The outcomes of this pivotal meeting will be presented to the

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, arrived in Harare, Republic of Zimbabwe, on 12 August 2024 to participate in the Meeting of the SADC Council of Ministers taking place ahead of the 44th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government. The Summit will take place under the theme, Promoting Innovation to unlock opportunities for sustained economic growth and development

On 16 August 2024, the University of Cape Town and the Metropolitan University of Hong Kong will sign a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which is the first of its kind to establish official working relations between the two universities. This is one of the projects that the South African Consulate coordinated to promote people-to-people relations as well as relations between institutions of higher learning

President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Thursday, 8 August 2024, concluded his Working Visit to the Republic of Angola. President Ramaphosa was in Luanda, Angola on a one day Working Visit as a guest of his counterpart President João Lourenço. The visit covered three key areas of mutual interest which are namely, the strengthening of the bilateral relationship between South Africa and Angola, sharing perspectives on

President Cyril Ramaphosa will embark on a Working Visit to the Republic of Angola on Thursday, 8 August 2024, to meet with President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço. The two Heads of State will use the occasion of the Working Visit to reflect on the bilateral relationship between the two countries, who share very deep historical ties that are rooted in the liberation struggle against colonialism

The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, met representatives of the German Bundestag on Wednesday, 7 August 2024, in Pretoria. The meeting with Mr Nils Schmid, Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs for the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in the Bundestag, and Ms Bettina Lugk, Deputy Spokesperson on Foreign Affairs for the SDP in the Bundestag, took place in the

The first normal Cabinet meeting of the 7th administration took place at the Union Buildings, Pretoria, two days before the country commemorates of the National Women’s Day. As we mark the 68th anniversary of the Women’s March and 70 years since the adoption of the Women’s Charter, a declaration of intent by the Federation of South African Women, which clearly defined the rights and privileges

Media Statement 25 July 2024 President Cyril Ramaphosa conveys condolences to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia President Cyril Ramaphosa, on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, has expressed deep sorrow and condolences following the recent landslides in Gofa, South Western Ethiopia, which tragically took the lives of at least 250 of people at this stage. President Ramaphosa said the South

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, held a telephonic courtesy call with his US counterpart, Deputy Secretary of State, Mr Kurt M Campbell, yesterday, 23 July 2024. The main purpose of the teleconference was for the Deputy Secretary of State, Mr Campbell, to congratulate Deputy Minister Botes on his re-appointment as the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and

South Africa welcomes the declaration of unity between various Palestinian groups and their stated intention to constitute an interim national unity reconciliation government. Palestinian unity has the capacity to bring Palestinians closer to achieving the core objectives of the Palestinian cause: self-determination, freedom, justice, peace and the establishment of an independent, sovereign and prosperous Palestinian state. Our own struggle for a free, non-racial, non-sexist, democratic,

On 19 July 2024, Mr Ronald Lamola, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa and Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, held a meeting on the sidelines of the African Union Executive Council in Accra, Ghana. The two Ministers reaffirmed the existing strong historical bilateral relations and bonds of friendship and solidarity between South

The Government of South Africa welcomes the Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice issued today in The Hague in respect of the Legal Consequences arising from the Policies and Practices of Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem. In its Advisory Opinion, which emanated from a request by the United Nations General Assembly on 30 December 2022, the Court unanimously reaffirmed

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola, will head the South African delegation to the 45th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Executive Council, scheduled for 18 and 19 July 2024 in Accra, Ghana. The theme of this session is Educate an African fit for the 21st century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant

On July 16, 2024, Mr Ronald Lamola (MP), the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation for the Republic of South Africa, and Mr David Lammy, the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs of the United Kingdom, held a meeting during Minister Lamola’s Working Visit to the United Kingdom. They agreed that the two countries would work to strengthen bilateral relations, including consolidating the

President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his warm congratulations to President Masoud Pezeshkian on his election as the new President of the Islamic Republic of Iran. On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, President Ramaphosa also congratulates the people of the Islamic Republic of Iran on exercising their democratic right during the two rounds of the electoral process, which took place on 28 June

President Cyril Ramaphosa was honoured yesterday evening, Sunday, 7 July 2024, with a phone call from His Excellency President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of the Arab Republic of Egypt who warmly congratulated President Ramaphosa on his new term of office. President El-Sisi shared with President Ramaphosa his expectation that South Africa and Egypt will continue to cooperate on issues of common interest. President Ramaphosa expressed his

President Cyril Ramaphosa and newly elected British Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, have expressed their shared commitment to deepening relations between South Africa and the United Kingdom in several areas of cooperation, including the just energy transition. Prime Minister Starmer placed a call with President Ramaphosa this morning, Sunday, 7 July 2024, to express his interest in working closely with South Africa as part of

President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated Sir Keir Starmer on his appointment to the position of Prime Minister of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland. Prime Minister Starmer assumed the position today, 5 July 2024, following the general elections held on 4 July 2024. President Ramaphosa said he looks forward to working with Prime Minister Starmer to enhance the strong, historic relations between

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola and his counterpart, Mr Anthony Blinken, recommitted to expanding and deepening the special relationship enjoyed by both South Africa and the United States. This happened during the courtesy call Minister Lamola received from Secretary Blinken congratulating him on his appointment. The call follows President Biden’s congratulatory call to President Ramaphosa on 2 July 2024. Both

President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Joe Biden have expressed their shared commitment to advancing the special relationship between the two countries. The Presidents expressed this commitment in a telephone discussion this evening, Tuesday, 2 July 2024. President Biden phoned President Ramaphosa to congratulate him on his recent election and the successful formation of the government of national unity. President Biden pledged that the United States

Presidential Inauguration 2024 The Inauguration of President-Elect Cyril Ramaphosa will take place at the Union Buildings, Pretoria, tomorrow following his re-election by Parliament on Friday, 14 June 2024. The swearing-in of the President-Elect will be conducted by Chief Justice Raymond Zondo in the Union Buildings’ Nelson Mandela Amphitheatre. The ceremony will be witnessed by South African and international guests, including South African royalty, Members of

On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his deep condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of Malawi on the passing of Vice-President, Dr Saulos Chilima and nine passengers in an aircraft crash.   Vice-President Chilima passed away after an aircraft in which he and nine personnel were travelling disappeared on Monday, 10 June 2024, during

The South African Government condemns Israel’s raid on the Nuseirat Refugee Camp on 8 June 2024. This attack, consisting of air, land and sea attacks on innocent civilians in a designated safe zone, is one of the single worst massacres committed by the Israeli occupation forces in Gaza.   We are appalled that these attacks are being praised by some, for saving four Israeli hostages,

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has undertaken an Official Visit to Russia to participate in the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled to take place on 10-11 June 2024, in Nizhny Novgorod.   The Meeting of the BRICS Foreign Ministers will be chaired by Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov.   Monday, 10 June, will be the traditional stand-alone Foreign Ministers’ Meeting

President Cyril Ramaphosa, has offered his congratulations to Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his re-election as Prime Minister of the Republic of India, commending him for his dedication and commitment to the people of India.   President Ramaphosa has also congratulated the people of India on exercising their democratic right and participating in the electoral process, which took place in seven phases from 19 April

The South African Government joins the international community in condemning the deplorable and brutal attacks on innocent civilians after Israeli forces bombed a tent camp housing displaced Palestinians in a designated safe zone in Rafah, killing dozens of people including women and children with some of these victims reported to be in critical condition.   The heinous attacks came two days after the International Court

South Africa once more expresses its serious concern at the on-going armed conflict in Sudan, which has resulted in loss of civilian lives, wanton destruction of property, especially critical infrastructure, and displacement of the population.   South Africa stands in solidarity with the innocent people of Sudan, who have been subjected to untold suffering since the outbreak of hostilities on 15 April 2023, with the

President Ramaphosa welcomes new ICJ Orders in aid of Rafah   South Africa welcomes the order handed down by the International Court of Justice (ICJ) today by 13 votes to 2, ordering Israel, in conformity with its obligations under the Genocide Convention and in view of the worsening conditions of life faced by civilians in Rafah, to immediately halt its military operation.   The Court

South Africa condemns the attempted coup d’etat that took place on Sunday, 19 May 2024, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.   The attempted coup’ in the DRC constitutes an erosion of the normative framework that underpins constitutionalism and good governance on the continent, which are the central tenets of building peace, stability and security.   In this context, South Africa welcomes the statement

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has expressed her deepest sympathy and condolences to the Government and the people of the Islamic Republic of Iran following the shocking and sad news of the passing of her counterpart, HE Dr Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, yesterday, 19 May 2024.   Dr Hossein Amir-Abdollahian is reported to have passed on in a helicopter crash, together with

President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the air disaster that has claimed the lives of Iranian President Ayatollah Ebrahim Raisi, Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and personnel.   President Raisi and Minister Amir-Abdollahian died when their helicopter crashed in East Azerbaijan while the leaders were en route back to Iran on Sunday, 19 May 2024.   On behalf of the Government and people of South

The President of the Federal Republic of Brazil, HE President Lula Da Silva has bestowed on Minister Naledi Pandor, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa, an honorific award of the Grand Cross of the Order of Rio Branco.   Ambassador Benedicto Fonseca Filho, the Brazilian Ambassador to South Africa, will present the Order to Minister Pandor, on behalf

The South African Government has learnt with sadness of devastating floods in northern Afghanistan that have claimed more than 300 lives.   The Government and the people of South Africa stand in solidarity with those affected by this tragedy and laud the emergency rescue and medical personnel in their tireless rescue efforts.   South Africa extends heartfelt condolences to the people of Afghanistan following these

The Republic of South Africa yesterday, 10 May 2024, returned to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to seek an urgent order from the court for the protection of the Palestinian people in Gaza from grave and irreparable violations of their rights under the Genocide Convention, as a result of Israel’s ongoing military assault on Rafah.   The urgent application follows the escalation of Israel’s

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has concluded her Working Visit to Malabo, Republic of Equatorial Guinea, where she held bilateral talks with her counterpart, HE Mr Simeon Oyono Esono Angue, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Diaspora.   During the bilateral meeting, which took place on Sunday, 5 May 2024, Minister Pandor and Minister Angue discussed the state of

The Government of South Africa is deeply disturbed about the unfolding developments in Gaza and is horrified by the Israeli military’s announcement that Rafah should be evacuated immediately as it will be operating in the area with “extreme force”.   This intended action amounts to forced displacement of Palestinians in Gaza that is unlawful under international law and cannot be justified by any military imperative.

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will undertake an Official Visit to Denmark to participate in the 2024 Nordic-African Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled to take place from 2-3 May 2024, in Copenhagen.   The two-day annual meeting will be held under the theme Multilateralism and increasing Trade and Investment.   Several African Ministers of Foreign Affairs or their representatives have confirmed

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) is confident that all systems are in place for the shipment of voting materials to enable South African citizens living abroad to cast their ballots.   DIRCO and the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) have met and agreed on logistics for the dispatching of election materials.   Voting materials will be sent to all 115 South African diplomatic

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in partnership with the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) and the University of Cape Town (UCT) will host a symposium on South Africa’s foreign policy, aimed at continuing public diplomacy efforts to engage broad sectors of society in understanding and implementing our foreign policy.   The symposium will focus on South Africa’s role in a

South Africa is appalled by the recent grim discovery of a mass grave containing the remains of 202 Palestinian civilians at Nasser Hospital in Gaza. This follows the reported discovery of mass graves at Al-Shifa Hospital.   These grim findings call for immediate and comprehensive investigations to ensure justice and accountability.   Israel continues to disregard the rulings by the International Court of Justice (ICJ)

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile is undertaking a Working Visit to Dubai and Abu-Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from 22-25 April 2024.   The Deputy President’s visit to the UAE is aimed at building and strengthening bilateral relations, particularly increasing economic and knowledge exchange between the two states.   The visit will see the Deputy President and his delegation engage with experts in

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, hosted the State Secretary for Foreign and Global Affairs of the Kingdom of Spain, Mr Diego Martínez Belío, on 23 April 2024. Deputy Minister Botes and State Secretary Martínez Belío co-chaired the 15th Session of the South Africa-Spain Bilateral Consultations. South Africa’s bilateral relations with Spain are managed through the Bilateral Consultations, which meets

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Minister Pandor, will co-chair the VII Session of the South Africa-Brazil Joint Commission (JC) on 23 April 2024 in Brasilia, Brazil, with her counterpart, Minister Mauro Vieira, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federative Republic of Brazil.   On 13 December 2003, South Africa and Brazil signed an agreement to establish a Joint Commission. A Declaration on

The Director-General of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Zane Dangor, and his counterpart, Mr Lounes Magramane, the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Community Abroad, of the People`s Democratic Republic of Algeria, held Political Consultations during a Working Visit to South Africa. The consultations formed part of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) mechanism at the Senior Officials level between the two countries.   South

President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Tuesday, 16 April 2024, arrived in Juba, South Sudan on a Working Visit to strengthen the existing bilateral relations between South Africa and South Sudan.   President Ramaphosa will also receive a detailed briefing from President Salva Kiir Mayardit, and other stakeholders, on the status of implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of

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The Government of South Africa is gravely concerned at developments in the Middle East following the retaliatory action by the Islamic Republic of Iran against Israel following Israel’s attacks on Iran’s Embassy in Damascus, Syria, on 1 April 2024.   As the Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres has stated, there is a “very real danger of a devastating region-wide escalation”.   In this

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on 15-16 April 2024, undertake a Working Visit to the Republic of Uganda to meet with HE President Yoweri Museveni.   The two leaders will discuss regional security and stability, including the situation in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo.   From Kampala, President Ramaphosa will proceed to the Republic of South Sudan.   The purpose of the visit, from 16-18

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Monday, 15 April 2024, host His Majesty King Mswati III, of the Kingdom of Eswatini, for a Working Visit at Mahlamba Ndlopfu, the President’s Official Residence, in Pretoria.   The visit follows a Courtesy Visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa to His Majesty King Mswati III, in Lozitha, Eswatini, on Wednesday, 3 April 2024.   South Africa and Eswatini share strong

South Africa express concern on the reported attack perpetrated by the Ecuadorian police on the Mexican Embassy on 5 April 2024, which was in violation of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961, in particular the principle of inviolability of diplomatic premises and personnel. This follows the arbitrary arrest of former Vice President, Jorge Glas Espinel, who was granted political asylum by the Mexican

A. Issues from the Environment   Economy   1.1. Revenue collection   1.1.1. Cabinet commends the millions of taxpayers who have filed their tax returns to help the South African Revenue Service collect tax revenue of R2.155 trillion for the 2023/24 financial year. 1.1.2. This is R52 billion more than the previous year and demonstrates the robustness of the local economy, despite challenging local and

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa and the Delegation of the European Union to South Africa regret the misrepresentation made by the media outlets Bloomberg and News 24 yesterday, 8 April 2024, regarding the relationship between the Republic of South Africa and the European Union.   We would like to reject the claim made by these media outlets

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has congratulated Professor Zukiswa Zingela on her re-election to the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) by the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) on 09 April 2024 in New York.   Professor Zingela was re-elected to the INCB in a highly competitive election, via the category of Member States, which had 25 candidates contesting five seats.

South Africa welcomes the adoption by the Human Rights Council of Resolution A/HRC/L.30 on the Human Rights Situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and the Obligation to Ensure Accountability and Justice by 28 votes in favour, 13 abstentions and eight votes against.   The adoption of the resolution is historic as this is the very first time that the Human Rights Council

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 9 April 2024, receive Letters of Credence from Heads of Mission-Designate at a Credentials Ceremony in Pretoria.   Letters of Credence are official diplomatic documents presented to the President by Heads of Mission-designate who have been nominated by their respective governments to serve as ambassadors to South Africa.   President Ramaphosa will receive Heads of Mission-Designate from the following

This morning, 7 April 2024, President Ramaphosa, joined fellow Heads of States and Government, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission and the President of the European Council, well as other dignitaries including Former Heads of States and Government and First Ladies, for a wreath-laying ceremony at the Kigali Genocide Memorial. This was followed by a National Commemoration Ceremony at the BK Arena. The ceremony

President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, 6 April 2024, arrived in Kigali to attend the 30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.   This year, Rwanda marks 30 years since the Genocide against the Tutsi which began on 7 April 1994 and lasted for 100 days, leading to more than a million deaths of mainly ethnic Tutsis. Every year, on this date, the Government

President Cyril Ramaphosa will today, 6 April 2024, undertake a visit to the Republic of Rwanda to attend the 30th Commemoration of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.   This year, Rwanda marks 30 years since the Genocide against the Tutsi which began on 7 April 1994 and lasted for 100 days, leading to more than a million deaths of mainly ethnic Tutsis. Every year,

The South African Government wishes to convey its condolences to the families of the victims as well as the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran following the attack on the consular section building of its Embassy in Damascus, the Syrian Arab Republic.   The South African Government views any attack on a diplomatic or consular establishment as a flagrant violation of international

His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded a Courtesy Visit to the His Majesty King Mswati III in Lozitha, Eswatini.   On arrival in the Kingdom of Eswatini, the President first paid a brief visit to the Queen Mother, Her Majesty iNdlovukazi, before proceeding to meet with His Majesty the King.   The two leaders affirmed their commitment to strong historical bonds between their two

The International Court of Justice (‘the Court’) has granted South Africa’s Urgent Request of 6 March 2024, for further provisional measures to prevent Israel from causing irreparable harm to the rights invoked by South Africa under the 1948 Genocide Convention in respect of the ongoing siege of Gaza.   In doing so, the Court agreed with South Africa’s assertion that the situation in Gaza had

President Ramaphosa, today, 28 March 2024, held a telephone discussion with the President of the Russian Federation, President Vladimir Putin. The two leaders discussed the ongoing efforts in the search for a peaceful end to the conflict in Ukraine.   The leaders also discussed broad areas of bilateral cooperation between the two countries.   President Ramaphosa also expressed his condolences to President Putin and the

President Cyril Ramaphosa has on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa congratulated President-elect, Mr Bassirou Diomaye Faye, on his election as the President of the Republic of Senegal.   The outcome of the election bears testimony to the resilient spirit of the Senegalese people who preferred the democratic course of change of government, through voting. The President applauded the other contestants for

A. ISSUES FROM THE ENVIRONMENT   INTERNATIONAL MATTERS   1.1. UN Security Council Resolution on Gaza   1.1.1. Cabinet welcomed the United Nations Security Council Resolution passed on Monday, 25 March 2024 that demand an immediate ceasefire for the Holy Month of Ramadan, the unconditional release of all hostages, and the urgent need to expand the flow of aid into Gaza. 1.1.2. This Security Council

South Africa has welcomed the adoption of Resolution 2728 (2024) by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on 25 March 2024, which demands an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip for the Holy Month of Ramadan.   Responding to the adoption of the Resolution, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor said, “South Africa is pleased that the Security Council has, at

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, held a meeting today, 25 March 2024, with his Swedish counterpart, Mr Jan Knutsson.   The meeting offered an opportunity for South Africa and Sweden to reflect on the status of their bilateral relations.   South Africa and Sweden enjoy good relations based on mutual respect, human rights, dialogue, consultation and cooperation.   The

His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, congratulated the President of the Russian Federation, His Excellency Vladimir Putin, for his re-election to the position of President of the Russian Federation.   President Ramaphosa further recalled the commitment of South Africa and the Russian Federation to mutual cooperation at the multilateral level, including the two countries’ common

The Director-General (DG) of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Mr Zane Dangor, will visit Kyiv, Ukraine, this week as part of South Africa’s ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at contributing to the resolution of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.   DG Dangor will be joined by Adv Nokukhanya Jele, Legal Advisor to President Cyril Ramaphosa. The two will join other international partners in talks with

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will undertake a Working Visit to the United States of America and the Caribbean Island of Jamaica, from 18-26 March 2024.   The purpose of Minister Pandor’s visit to the United States of America is to engage in high-level consultations and discussions with various stakeholders and organisations, ranging from government, non-governmental, captains of businesses, academia

A. Issues from the environment   Economy   1.1. Trade Matters   1.1.1. Cabinet welcomes the adoption by the African Union Assembly of key protocols and decisions affecting the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). These included the first ever Protocol on Women and Youth in Trade, as well as Protocols on Investment and on Digital Trade. 1.1.2. The Assembly, attended by President Cyril Ramaphosa

At the invitation of His Excellency, President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, the President of the Republic of Ghana, His Excellency, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo, paid a Working Visit to the Republic of South Africa, on 12 March 2024, to co-chair the Second Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries. The BNC was preceded by the Ministerial Meeting on 11 March 2024

On 11 March 2024, member countries of the Commonwealth will commemorate Commonwealth Day. Commonwealth Day is the annual celebration observed by people all over the Commonwealth in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and Americas, as well as the Pacific and Europe.   The Commonwealth theme for 2024 is, ‘One Resilient Common Future’.   Each year, the Commonwealth and its members celebrate Commonwealth Day to renew their

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 12 March 2024, co-chair the Second Session of the South Africa-Ghana Bi-National Commission (BNC) with His Excellency President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo of the Republic of Ghana.   The BNC will be preceded by a Ministerial Meeting on Monday, 11 March 2024, and will conclude with a Business Forum on 12 March 2024.   The BNC will take place

South Africa has on 6 March 2024, approached the International Court of Justice (ICJ) with an urgent application for the provisional measures the court ordered on 26 January 2024, to be strengthened to prevent a catastrophic famine in the Gaza Strip.   The urgent application has been necessitated by widespread starvation in Gaza, which has claimed the lives of at least 15 children in the

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will on Tuesday, 5 March 2024, host his counterpart from the Czech Republic, the First Deputy Foreign Minister, Mr Jiří Kozák, for Bilateral Political Consultations.   The two delegations will aim to consolidate and further enhance diplomatic and political cooperation between South Africa and the Czech Republic. The meeting will follow up on progress

President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, 3 March 2024, held a meeting with the Vice President of the Transitional Sovereign Council of the Republic of Sudan, Mr Malik Agar Eyre Nganyoufa. The purpose of the meeting was to brief the President on the developments towards peace in Sudan.   President Ramaphosa welcomed the briefing and expressed South Africa’s support for dialogue between the warring factions. The

South Africa condemns the massacre of 112 Palestinians and the injury of hundreds more as they sought life-saving aid. The Israeli forces fired on hundreds of Palestinian civilians already vulnerable due to the onslaught on Palestinians over the last four months.   This attack comes just days after Israel submitted a report to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and to which South Africa is

President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his sadness at the passing of Mr Brian Mulroney, former Prime Minister of Canada and Esteemed Member of the National Order of the Companions of OR Tambo.   Mr Mulroney, who served as Prime Minister from 1984 to 1993, has passed away at the age of 84.   On behalf of Government and the nation, President Ramaphosa offers his deep

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will participate in the Third Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF), scheduled to take place from 1-3 March 2024 in Antalya, in the Republic of Türkiye.   Minister Pandor will use the opportunity of her visit to Antalya to hold a bilateral meeting, with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Türkiye, HE Mr Hakan

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Hon. Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has thanked the foreign diplomatic missions that participated in the public participation programme held in Mthatha, Eastern Cape, on 28-29 February 2024.   The event was organised in partnership with the OR Tambo District Municipality based in Mthatha. The provincial government of the Eastern Cape also took part in the events.   Several foreign

A. Issues from the environment   Economy   1.1 National Budget Speech   1.1.1 Cabinet welcomed the 2024 National Budget, which demonstrated the resolute commitment by government to consistently manage the country’s economy and take tough decisions necessary to balance the deficit while promoting economic growth. 1.1.2 The National Budget continues to drive critical priorities and support for the most vulnerable of our nation. It

At a ceremony held at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) today, the South African Permanent Representative to the United Nations in Vienna, Ambassador Rapulane Molekane, handed over South Africa’s Instrument of Acceptance of the Amendment to the Convention on the Physical Protection of Nuclear Material (CPPNM) to the IAEA Director-General, Mr Rafael Grossi.   In submitting its Instrument of Acceptance, South Africa joins a

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will participate in the High-Level Segment of the 55th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council (HRC 55), scheduled to take place from 26-28 February 202 in Geneva, Switzerland.   Minister Pandor will deliver a national statement, outlining South Africa’s human rights priority issues for the year 2024.   Minister Pandor is also scheduled

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Federative Republic of Brazil to participate in the Group of Twenty (G20) Foreign Ministers Meeting, scheduled to take place, on Wednesday, 21 February and Thursday, 22 February 2024.   This meeting follows the first Sherpa’s meeting that was convened in December 2023 during which Brazil presented its broader priorities

President Cyril Ramaphosa has today 18 February 2024, concluded his participation at the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU).   The AU Assembly met under the theme: “Educate an Africa fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased access to inclusive, lifelong, quality, and relevant learning in Africa”.   The Assembly discussed the status of peace

President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, 16 February 2024, arrived in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia for the 37th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the African Union, to be convened between 17 and 18 February 2024.   The AU Assembly is meeting under the theme: “Educate an Africa fit for the 21st Century: Building resilient education systems for increased

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is leading a South African delegation at the 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU) taking place on 14-15 February 2024 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.   The AU Executive Council is composed of foreign ministers, or such other ministers or authorities as designated by the governments of Member States.  

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will participate in the 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU) on 14-15 February 2024, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.   The AU Executive Council is composed of foreign ministers, or such other ministers or authorities as designated by the governments of Member States.   The Executive Council’s core functions include

The South African Government has made an urgent request to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to consider whether the decision announced by Israel to extend its military operations in Rafah, which is the last refuge for surviving people in Gaza, requires that the court uses its power to prevent further imminent breach of the rights of Palestinians in Gaza.   Under Article 75(1) of

In fulfilling South Africa’s international obligation towards the Southern African Development Community (SADC) mission to support the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), President Cyril Ramaphosa ordered the employment of 2900 members of the South African National Defence Force to assist in the fight against illegal armed groups in the Eastern DRC.   The employment will cover the period from 15 December 2023 to 15 December

On behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, I extend our warmest wishes to the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China as well the Chinese community in South Africa on the advent of the Lunar New Year on Saturday, 10 February 2024.   Under the leadership of His Excellency President Xi Jinping, the People’s Republic of China

President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a Working Visit to Windhoek, Namibia, tomorrow on Saturday, 10 February 2024, to pay his respects following the passing of the President of the Republic of Namibia, His Excellency Hage Gottfried Geingob.   President Geingob passed away on Sunday, 4 February 2024, while being treated in hospital for cancer.   President Ramaphosa reiterates, on behalf of the Government and people

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has learned about an unfortunate advisory issued by the High Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Pretoria.   The advisory is regrettable, because it seems to create alarm and unnecessary tension between the citizens of South Africa and Nigerians living in or visiting South Africa.   The South African national soccer team, Bafana Bafana, has

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will be the guest of honour and speak at a High-level reception of Invest Africa’s 11th Annual Mining Series, which will be held on the margins of the Investing in African Mining Indaba Conference, currently underway in Cape Town.   The event will take place at 18h00, this evening, 5 February 2024 at the Nasdak

President Cyril Ramaphosa is deeply saddened by the passing early today, 4 February 2024, of His Excellency Dr Hage Gottfried Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia.   On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, President Ramaphosa extends deep condolences to the Government and people of Namibia, and especially First Lady Madame Monica Geingos and the immediate and extended family.   President

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 31 January 2024, officiate the launch of South Africa’s first shipment and preferential trading under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).   The launch ceremony will take place at the Port of Durban in the KwaZulu-Natal Province and occurs on the margins of the 13th AfCFTA Council of Ministers held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre

Today marks a decisive victory for the international rule of law and a significant milestone in the search for justice for the Palestinian people. In a landmark ruling, the International Court of Justice (ICJ) has determined that Israel’s actions in Gaza are plausibly genocidal and has indicated provisional measures on that basis. For the implementation of the international rule of law, the decision is a

On 29 December 2023, the Republic of South Africa (hereinafter “South Africa”) filed in the Registry of the Court an Application instituting proceedings against the State of Israel (hereinafter “Israel”) concerning alleged violations in the Gaza Strip of obligations under the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide (hereinafter the “Genocide Convention” or the “Convention”).

The Government of the Republic of South Africa is deeply concerned about the increased attacks on civilians around the world and recent reports that more civilians were killed in armed conflict over the last year than any other year for more than a decade.   The deliberate targeting of non-combatants is a blatant violation of international humanitarian law and human rights laws and principles.  

President Cyril Ramaphosa, today, 20 January 2024, arrived in the Democratic Republic of Congo capital Kinshasa, to attend the inauguration and swearing-in of President-elect, His Excellency, Mr Félix Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo.   South Africa continues to play a constructive role in the pursuit of peace and security as well as the post conflict reconstruction and development in the DRC and the Great Lakes region.  

His Excellency Deputy President Paul Mashatile will on Tuesday, 23 January 2024 welcome His Royal Highness Prince Edward, the Duke of Edinburgh, on a courtesy call at the OR Tambo Official Residence in Pretoria.   The Duke of Edinburgh is on a Working Visit to South Africa on 22 and 23 January 2024.   The visit follows the successful State Visit that His Excellency President

President Cyril Ramaphosa has this evening, 18 January 2024, arrived in Kampala in the Republic of Uganda to attend the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, to be held on 19 to 20 January 2024 under the theme Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence.   The summit is preceded by a meeting of the NAM Ministers held from 17 to 18 January 2024.   The NAM

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has undertaken a Working Visit to Kampala in Uganda to participate in the Ministerial Session of the 19th Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Summit, held under the theme Deepening Cooperation for Shared Global Affluence.   The two-day Ministerial Session (17-18 January 2024) precedes the 19th NAM Summit to be held on 19-20 January 2024.   Enquiries: Mr

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, offered South Africa’s sincere condolences to the Government and people of Japan following a 7.6 magnitude earthquake, which hit the country’s west coast on 1 January 2024 at 16h00.   The 7.6 magnitude earthquake has led to extensive loss of life and rising numbers

Today, Sunday, 31 December 2023, President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed South Africa’s message of congratulations to HE Mr Félix Tshisekedi, President-Elect, on his re-election as President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).   On 20 December 2023 millions of voters in the DRC participated in the synchronised general elections to choose national, provincial, and local public representatives. The outcome of these elections was announced

South Africa is gravely concerned with the plight of civilians caught in the present Israeli attacks on the Gaza Strip due to the indiscriminate use of force and forcible removal of inhabitants. Furthermore, there are ongoing reports of international crimes, such as crimes against humanity and war crimes, being committed as well as reports that acts meeting the threshold of genocide or related crimes as

The President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa, extends his warmest congratulations to His Excellency Abdel Fattah El-Sisi upon his successful election as President of the Arab Republic of Egypt following the conclusion of the Presidential Elections held from 10-12 December 2023.   The historic elections reflect the will of the people of Egypt in charting their future. The President also

The South African Government is gravely concerned by reports that some South African citizens and permanent residents have joined or are considering joining the Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) in the war in Gaza and in the other Occupied Palestinian Territories.   Such action can potentially contribute to the violation of international law and the commission of further international crimes, thus making them liable for prosecution

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his Working Visit to the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus.   In Russia, the Deputy Minister met with his counterpart, Mr Mikhail Bogdanov, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, to hold Political Consultations on a range of issues including the importance of strengthening the trade and investment relationship between the

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has arrived in Hanoi, the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to begin the second leg of his first Working Visit to Southeast Asia. The Deputy President began his visit today with a tour of the Mausoleum and home of the late leader of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh. The Deputy President laid a wreath at the Mausoleum and conveyed a

Media Statement   10 December 2023   Deputy President Mashatile begins historic Working Visit to Singapore and Vietnam   Deputy President Paul Mashatile has arrived in the Republic of Singapore to begin the first leg of his first Working Visit to Southeast Asia. The Deputy President began his visit today with a tour of the Marina Barrage development, Singapore’s innovate water resource management project.  

Media Statement   10 December 2023   Deputy Minister Botes to travel to Russia and Belarus for Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will, from 11-14 December 2023, undertake a Working Visit to Russia and Belarus. The purpose of the Working Visit to Eastern Europe is for Political Consultations at the Deputy Minister level.   Russia  

Media Statement   9 December 2023   South Africa condemns the proposed march by the ultra-nationalist organisations to the Al-Aqsa compound and the ongoing massacres in Gaza   The Government of the Republic of South Africa has noted with concern the Israeli police decision to allow a proposed march by ultranationalist organisations and other groups in Jerusalem’s Old City and the Islamic Quarter, calling for

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 8 December 2023   Cabinet met on Friday, 8 December 2023 to consider outstanding matters from its Cabinet Meeting of 29th November 2023.   A. ISSUES FROM THE ENVIRONMENT   The 11th Presidential District Development Model Imbizo – Lejweleputswa District of the Free State.   1.1 Cabinet noted the steady progress government is making in addressing the service delivery

Media Statement   4 December 2023   Statement on the evacuation of South Africans from Gaza   Early on Sunday, 11 November 2023, 19 South African nationals who have been stuck in Gaza since 7 October 2023, were approved for evacuation into Egypt by the Israeli authorities.   The evacuated South Africans, comprising six males and 13 females, have now arrived safely in Cairo and

Media Statement   3 December 2023   President Cyril Ramaphosa pleased with milestones reached as he concludes visit to COP28, in Dubai   President Cyril Ramaphosa concluded his official visit to Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), yesterday Saturday, 2 December 2023.   The President is satisfied with the level of engagements at COP28, including the resulting outcome of setting up a loss and damage fund.

Media Statement   1 December 2023   Ministers Pandor and Nzimande to co-host the Southern Africa Regional Preparatory Conference for the Ninth Pan-African Congress in Pretoria   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor; and the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Dr Blade Nzimande, will co-host the Southern Africa Regional Preparatory Conference for the Ninth Pan-African Congress on Monday and

Media Statement   30 November 2023   President Ramaphosa arrives in Dubai to participate in the World Climate Action Summit   President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), today, Thursday 30 November 2023, to lead South Africa’s participation in the United Nations climate-focused Conference of Parties (COP28).   COP28, brings together world leaders to present on progress and ambition across all

Media Statement   29 November 2023   South Africa and Peru to hold inaugural Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will host his counterpart, the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Peru, Ambassador Ignacio Higueras Hare, on Thursday, 30 November 2023, in Pretoria.   The visit coincides with the 30-year anniversary of the establishment

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 29 November 2023   A. Issues in the Environment   Economy   1.1. Logistics   1.1.1. Cabinet welcomed measures and plans put in place by Transnet to resolve the backlog in the ports (Durban and Richard’s Bay). Transnet is making intensive efforts to mobilise equipment, such as cranes, from all over the world to ensure a successful execution of

Media Advisory   29 November 2023   South Africa to host the Sixth BRICS Sherpas Meeting   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will host the Sixth BRICS Sherpas Meeting from 30 November to 3 December 2023 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.   The purpose of the meeting is to reflect on South Africa’s tenure as Chair of BRICS for the year 2023 and to

Media Invite   28 November 2023   Deputy Minister Botes to mark International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr. Alvin Botes, will on Wednesday, 29 November 2023, address an event commemorating the 46th United Nations (UN) International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.   Members of the media are invited as follows:  

Media Statement   27 November 2023   South Africa and Union of the Comoros co-host the Third African Union Men’s Conference   President Cyril Ramaphosa, together with AU Chairperson and President Azali Assoumani of the Union of the Comoros, will on Tuesday, 28 November 2023 co-host the African Union (AU) Third Men’s Conference on Positive Masculinity in Leadership to End Violence Against Women and Girls.

Media Advisory   24 November 2023   South Africa to host the Sixth BRICS Sherpas Meeting   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will host the Sixth BRICS Sherpas Meeting from 30 November to 3 December 2023 in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.   The purpose of the meeting is to reflect on South Africa’s tenure as Chair of BRICS for the year 2023 and to

Media Statement   24 November 2023   Minister Pandor sends condolences following the passing of former DIRCO Deputy Minister   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has expressed her profound sadness at the passing away of the former Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Luwellyn Landers.   Mr Landers served as Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation between

Media Statement   22 November 2023   President Ramaphosa welcomes agreement on humanitarian pause in Israel-Palestine conflict   President Cyril Ramaphosa welcomes the announcement by the State of Qatar that a four-day humanitarian pause has been agreed in the conflict in Gaza.   The President commends the State of Qatar, the Arab Republic of Egypt and the United States of America on mediation efforts that

Media Release   22 November 2023   Minister Pandor to participate in the virtual G20 Leaders’ Summit   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will this afternoon, Wednesday, 22 November 2023, represent President Cyril Ramaphosa at a virtual G20 Leaders’ Summit.   Currently chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India, G20 is a premier forum for international economic cooperation that

We, Leaders and representatives of the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Republic of India, the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa met with Leaders of the Argentine Republic, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, the Islamic Republic of Iran, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates and the Secretary-General of

Media Advisory   20 November 2023   South Africa to chair BRICS Extraordinary Joint Meeting on the Middle East situation in Gaza   President Cyril Ramaphosa will, as Chair of the BRICS group of nations, convene a BRICS Extraordinary Joint Meeting on the Middle East situation in Gaza tomorrow, Tuesday, 21 November 2023.   Leaders of BRICS countries – Brazil, Russia, India and China –

Media Statement   19 November 2023   President congratulates Auditor-General on UNESCO appointment   President Cyril Ramaphosa commends Auditor-General of South Africa, Ms Tsakani Maluleke, on her appointment as External Auditor of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) for a period of six years, from 2024 to 2029.   President Ramaphosa appointed Ms Maluleke, on recommendation of the National Assembly, as Auditor-General

Media Statement   17 November 2023   South Africa, along with like-minded States, submits joint referral of the situation in Palestine to the ICC   On 17 November 2023, South Africa referred the situation in the State of Palestine to the Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) of the International Criminal Court (ICC), pursuant to Article 14 of the Rome Statute. The referral was delivered in

Media Statement   16 November 2023   South Africa condemns the Israeli bombardment near the Jordanian field hospital in Gaza   South Africa joins the international community in expressing its serious concern following the Israeli bombing near the Jordanian field hospital in Gaza on 15 November 2023, which left several hospital staff members wounded as they attempted to treat Palestinian citizens injured by Israel’s bombardment.

Media Statement   16 November 2023   President Ramaphosa concludes Official Visit to the State of Qatar   President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded his visit to the State of Qatar. President Ramaphosa travelled to Doha for a State Visit from 14-15 November 2023. The Republic of South Africa and the State of Qatar will in 2024 celebrate the 30th anniversary of Diplomatic relations.   During

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 16 November 2023   A. Issues in the Environment Economic Recovery and Growth   Quarterly Labour Force Survey   1.1. Cabinet welcomes the 2023, third quarter, Quarterly Labour Force Survey results as released by Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) that indicated employment figures have surpassed the pre-COVID-19 employment levels. 1.2. Cabinet is pleased that all Provinces, but one, have

Media Statement   13 November 2023   President to undertake State Visit to Qatar   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 15 November 2023, undertake a State Visit to Qatar at the invitation of His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, Amir of the State of Qatar.   The State Visit will form part of two days of engagement between the Governments of South

Media Statement   10 November 2023   DIRCO démarches the Ambassador of the State of Israel   On 9 November 2023, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) démarched the Ambassador of the State of Israel to South Africa, HE Mr E Belotsercovsky, to discuss the ambassador’s recent unfortunate conduct relating to the unfolding, tragic Israel-Palestine war.   The Director-General (DG) of DIRCO, Mr

Media Statement   10 November 2023   Deputy President Mashatile leads South Africa’s delegation to the First Saudi Arabia-Africa Summit   Deputy President Paul Mashatile has arrived in Riyadh, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, to lead the South African delegation to the 1st Saudi-Africa Summit, scheduled for this afternoon, Friday, 10 November 2023.   Originally scheduled for 2019, the Saudi-Africa Summit will deal in

Media Statement   10 November 2023   President congratulates Prof. Dire Tladi   President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his warm congratulations to Prof. Dire Tladi of the University of Pretoria, on his election by the United Nations as a judge of the International Court of Justice.   In May 2023, Cabinet endorsed Prof. Tladi’s nomination by the South African Government, together with South Africa’s membership on

Media Statement   4 November 2023   South Africa calls on Israel to adhere to its obligations under international law and protect civilians   Reports from Al Jazeera suggest that Israel may delay the repatriation of countries such as South Africa, Brazil, and Ireland due to these countries having called for a ceasefire in Gaza.   According to reports from the ground in Gaza, Israel

Media Statement   2 November 2023   Statement of support on the Anniversary of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front – 2 November 2023   Today marks the first anniversary of the signing in Pretoria, under the tutelage of the African Union, of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the Federal Democratic Republic

Media Statement   2 November 2023   Deputy President Paul Mashatile attends Eight South Africa-China Bi-national Commission and China International Import Expo in China, 3-6 November 2023   Deputy President Paul Mashatile has arrived in the People’s Republic of China, where he is hosted by his counterpart and the Vice President of the People’s Republic of China, His Excellency Han Zheng, for the Eight Session

Media Advisory   2 November 2023   Minister Pandor to host her Ukrainian counterpart for Political Consultations   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, HE Mr Dmytro Kuleba, for Political Consultations on Monday, 6 November 2023. The two ministers are expected to hold a media briefing at the conclusion of the meeting.

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 1 November 2023   A. Issues in the environment   2023 Rugby World Cup Champions   1.1. Cabinet congratulated the Springboks on their 2023 Rugby World Cup victory that made South Africa the only country to win the Rugby World Cup four (4) times and second to win the title back-to-back. 1.2. In the history of rugby in South

Media Release   1 November 2023   DA misreads the economic benefits of hosting international conferences   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) is dismayed by the misguided statement issued by the Democratic Alliance’s member of Parliament, Ms Emma Louise Powell, regarding the costs associated with hosting the recently held XV Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Summit in Johannesburg.  

Media Statement   31 October 2023   President Ramaphosa to participate in virtual Extraordinary SADC Summit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will today, 31 October 2023, participate in a virtual Extraordinary Summit of the SADC Heads of State and Government.   The summit will, amongst others, consider a report regarding the impending deployment of the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC).   The

Media Statement   30 October 2023   South Africa calls for the International community to hold Israel accountable for breaches of International Law   Save the Children has reported that the number of children killed in Gaza over the last three weeks has surpassed the annual number of children killed across all the world’s conflict zones since 2019. Since 07 October, more than 3 257

Media Statement   28 October   President lauds Springboks’ historic Rugby World Cup victory   On behalf the nation, President Cyril Ramaphosa commends the Springboks on their Rugby World Cup 2023 victory over New Zealand which makes South Africa the first country to win this championship four times.   The President offers his congratulations to the team who performed at the Stade de France this

Media Advisory   27 October 2023   Minister Pandor returns to Klapmuts and Kayamandi communities to make donation to a school and meet the elderly   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will return to the Klapmuts community outside Stellenbosch, Western Cape, on Saturday, 28 October 2023, to make a donation to a school. The event will be held in partnership

Media Release   24 October 2023   Minister Pandor to participate in the UNSC debates on the Middle East, including the Question of Palestine and Women and Peace and Security in New York on 24-25 October 2023   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has undertaken a Working Visit to New York to participate in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)’s

Media Statement   24 October 2023   Minister Pandor concludes Visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr G N M Pandor, has concluded on 22 October 2023 her one-day visit to Tehran, the Islamic Republic of Iran. During the Minister’s visit she met with the President of the Islamic Republic of Iran, HE Ayatollah Seyyed Ebrahim

Media Advisory   24 October 2023   Unisa and DIRCO to host symposium on South Africa’s non-alignment position during the evolving geographical developments   The University of South Africa (Unisa), in partnership with the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), will hold a symposium to reflect on South Africa’s position of non-alignment on the evolving geographical developments, which has been challenged by some in

Media Statement   23 October 2023   Deputy Minister Botes concludes visit to Togo   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes has concluded his visit to Lomé, Togo where he participated in the Inaugural Lomé Peace and Security Forum.   The Forum took place from 21-22 October 2023 under the theme: “How to strengthen political transitions towards democratic governance in

Media Statement   22 October 2023   President Ramaphosa appeals for more action from the international community in reviving the Israeli-Palestinian peace process   President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded his Working Visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt with an appeal to the international community to do more in enabling the revival of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.   The President travelled to Cairo, Egypt on

Media Statement   20 October 2023   President Ramaphosa to attend Cairo Summit for Peace   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Saturday, 21 October 2023, attend the Cairo Summit for Peace at the invitation of His Excellency Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt.   The Summit will discuss the ongoing escalation of the conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip, the

Media Statement   20 October 2023   Deputy Minister Botes to participate in the Inaugural Lomé Peace and Security Forum   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will on 21-22 October 2023 participate in the Inaugural Lomé Peace and Security Forum in Lomé, Togo.   The Inaugural Lomé Peace and Security Forum is a framework on Peace and Security issues

Media Statement   19 October 2023   Minister Pandor undertakes Working Visit to Zambia   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa, Dr Naledi Pandor, will undertake a Working Visit to the Republic of Zambia to hold political and diplomatic consultations with her counterpart, Mr Stanley Kakubo, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, on 20 October 2023.  

Media Statement   18 October 2023   Third Meeting of the South Africa–Netherlands Joint Commission for Cooperation   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa, Dr Naledi Pandor, hosted the Third Meeting of the JCC in Pretoria on 18 October 2023. The delegation of the Netherlands was led by Ms Hanke Bruins Slot, the Minister of Foreign Affairs.   The Ministers reviewed

Media Statement   18 October 2023   President Ramaphosa and President Zelenskyy affirm closer cooperation in peace process and reflect on the situation in the Middle East   President Cyril Ramaphosa held a telephone conversation with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, on 17 October 2023, at the request of President Zelenskyy, wherein both leaders affirmed their closer cooperation and shared desire for a peaceful resolution of the

Media Statement   18 October 2023   President Ramaphosa mourns passing of former Finnish President Ahtisaari   President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his deep and profound sadness at the passing of Former President of Finland, Martti Ahtisaari, who died at the age of 86 on 16 October 2023.   President Ahtisaari was well respected for the many leadership roles he occupied and accolades that he

Media Statement   18 October 2023   South Africa condemns the bombing of the Ahli Arab hospital   South Africa condemns in the strongest possible terms the killing of civilians in Palestine and Israel. The targeting of civilians in armed conflicts is in violation of International Humanitarian Law and Geneva Conventions.   Just as the attack by Hamas on civilians in Israel was abhorrent, there

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 18 October 2023   A. ISSUES IN THE ENVIRONMENT   South Africa’s Census 2022 national results   1.1. Cabinet commended the Statistics South Africa led by Statistician-General, Mr Risenga Maluleke for running South Africa’s first digital census aligned to UN acclaimed methodologies. 1.2. The fourth population and household count in post-apartheid South Africa tells a convincing story of a

Media Statement   17 October 2023   Minister Pandor clarifies the content of her discussion with the leader of Hamas   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) wishes to confirm that Minister Naledi Pandor received a request to call the Hamas Leader Ismail Haniyeh to discuss getting Humanitarian Aid to Palestine.   During the call, and In line with the Government’s position, Minister

Media Statement   16 October 2023   President Ramaphosa to host Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of Netherlands on a State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will host Their Majesties King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Kingdom of the Netherlands on a State Visit.   The State Visit by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima to South Africa will take place from 18

Media Invite   16 October 2023   Memorial Service for the late Dr Aziz Pahad   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will hold a memorial service for the late Dr Aziz Pahad on Tuesday, 17 October 2023.   Pahad was born on 25 December 1940 and passed away on 27 September 2023.   Pahad served as the Deputy Minister of the then

Media Statement   13 October 2023   The Humanitarian Catastrophe in Gaza   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation in South Africa condemns in the strongest possible terms Israel’s violation of the Geneva Conventions and the abandonment of International Humanitarian Law in Gaza, by their intentional denial of food, water, electricity, and fuel to the people of Gaza.   According to the World Health

Media Statement   13 October 2023   President Ramaphosa arrives in Namibia to co-chair the Third Session of the South Africa–Namibia BNC   President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Friday, 13 October 2023, arrived in the Republic of Namibia on a Working Visit to co-chair, with Namibian President Hage Geingob, the Third Session of the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Namibia Bi-National Commission

Media Invite   12 October 2023   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini to handover laptops   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, will in partnership with the Embassy of the State of Qatar, handover laptops to two schools in Mpumalanga on Friday, 13 October 2023.   Twenty (20) laptops will be handed over to students of Mshadza Secondary and Lungisani Secondary School.

Media Statement   12 October 2023   President Ramaphosa extends his condolences and calls for the opening of humanitarian corridors in the Middle East   President Cyril Ramaphosa has extended his condolences to all victims of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.   This follows an escalation of hostilities on Saturday, 7 October 2023 that has left more than a thousand people dead.   The President has also

Media Statement   11 October 2023   President Ramaphosa to co-chair Third South Africa–Namibia Bi-National Commission with President Geingob   President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a Working Visit to the Republic of Namibia on Friday, 13 October 2023, to co-chair with Namibian President Hage Geingob, the Third Session of the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Namibia Bi-National Commission (SA–Namibia BNC).   The

Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) – the 23rd Meeting of the Council of Ministers, the Colombo Communiqué, 2023, 11 October 2023   We, the Ministers and Heads of Delegation of the Member States of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA); Commonwealth of Australia, People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Union of Comoros, French Republic on account of Reunion (henceforth France/Reunion), Republic of India, Republic of Indonesia, Islamic

Media Advisory   9 October 2023   Media Accreditation: Incoming Netherlands State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will host His Majesty King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands on a State Visit on Thursday, 19 October 2023, at the Union Buildings in Pretoria.   Media is invited to apply for media accreditation to cover the Incoming Netherlands State Visit by filling in the attached media accreditation application

Media Statement   9 October 2023   Minister Pandor visits Sri Lanka for the Meeting of IORA Council of Ministers   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will take part in the 23rd Council of Ministers (COM) Meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), which will be held in Colombo, Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, on 11 October 2023

Media Statement   7 October 2023   South Africa calls for the immediate cessation of violence, restraint, and peace between Israel and Palestine   South Africa expresses its grave concern over the recent devastating escalation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The new conflagration has arisen from the continued illegal occupation of Palestine land, continued settlement expansion, desecration of the Al Aqsa Mosque and Christian holy sites,

Media Statement   2 October 2023   President Ramaphosa to receive Letters of Credence from Heads of Mission-Designate   President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Tuesday, 3 October 2023, receive Letters of Credence from Heads of Mission-Designate at a Credentials Ceremony in Pretoria.   Letters of Credence are official diplomatic documents presented to the President by Heads of Mission-designate who have been nominated by their respective

Media Statement   1 October 2023   Minister Pandor attends the Retreat of the African Union Executive Council Meeting in Kigali, Rwanda 1–3 October 2023   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has arrived in Kigali, Rwanda to attend a three-day Meeting of the African Union’s Executive Council, from 1 October to 3 October 2023.   The Ministers responsible for Finance

Media Statement   30 September 2023   Joint Media Statement: 13th South Africa-United States Annual Bilateral Forum (ABF)   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) hosted the 13th Annual Bilateral Forum (ABF) on 15 September 2023. The ABF co-chairs were Ambassador Maud Dlomo, Deputy Director-General: Americas and Europe at DIRCO, and Dr Reuben E. Brigety II, the United States Ambassador to the Republic

Media Statement   29 September 2023   President designates Special Official Funeral Category 2 to honour Mr Aziz Pahad   President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared that the late former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Aziz Pahad, will be honoured with a Special Official Funeral Category 2 tomorrow, Saturday 30 September 2023.   Mr Pahad passed away on Wednesday, 27 September 2023, at the age of

The Second Session of the High-Level Political and Diplomatic Consultations between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Tunisia took place on 29 September 2023. Her Excellency Dr Grace Naledi Pandor, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation invited His Excellency Mr Nabil Ammar, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Migration, and Tunisians Abroad of the Republic of Tunisia to the Republic of South Africa, Pretoria,

Media Invite   28 September 2023   Minister Pandor to host her Tunisian counterpart for Political Consultations   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host Minister Nabil Ammar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Tunisia, for Political Consultations on Friday, 29 September 2023.   It is expected that the Political Consultations will provide an opportunity for the two

At the invitation of President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, The Right Honourable, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho, Samuel Ntsokoane Matekane, paid a Working Visit to the Republic Inaugural Session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between the two countries.

Media Statement   28 September 2023   President mourns passing of former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Aziz Pahad   President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his sadness at the passing of former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Aziz Pahad.   Mr Pahad passed away on Wednesday, 27 September 2023, at the age of 82.   Mr Pahad, who exercised his anti-apartheid activism in the Transvaal