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 Courte ...

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 ...

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 A ...

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 t ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Tuesd ...

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, Pola ...

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 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 ...

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 platf ...

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). ...

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 a ...

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 sched ...

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 Har ...

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 wil ...

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 ...

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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 de ...

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 Democ ...

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, fo ...

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 ...

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 conclude ...

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, ...

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 C ...

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 Botc ...

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). ...

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 o ...

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 Constitution ...

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 an ...

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 ...

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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 ch ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ye ...

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. ...

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 ...

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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 kil ...

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 ...

  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 Ambass ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Octo ...

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 ...

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 follow ...

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 expect ...

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 ...

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 Federat ...

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 ...

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 Trad ...

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 e ...

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 Afric ...

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). ...

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 Decemb ...

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-cha ...

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 ...

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 soci ...

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 e ...

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 con ...

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 imper ...

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-Afric ...

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 co ...

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 th ...

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 ...

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 Summi ...

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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 ...

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 h ...

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 busi ...

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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 ...

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 Innovatio ...

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 Hea ...

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 ...

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 visi ...

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 bi ...

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 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 adopt ...

Media Statement25 July 2024President Cyril Ramaphosa conveys condolences to the Federal Democratic Republic of EthiopiaPresident Cyril Ramaphosa, on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, has expressed deep sorrow and condolences followi ...

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 ...

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 th ...

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 ...

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, incl ...

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 thi ...

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 ...

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 congratulate ...

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. Pr ...

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 tran ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 2 ...

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 wil ...

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 cra ...

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 Is ...

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 ...

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 Ramap ...

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 ...

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.   ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 counte ...

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 d ...

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 ...

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 an ...

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 und ...

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 A ...

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”. &nb ...

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 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 ...

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 conti ...

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 ...

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 bilatera ...

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 Martíne ...

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 Fore ...

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 ...

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 ...

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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. &nb ...

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 Ea ...

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 Visi ...

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 ...

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 R ...

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, regard ...

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 N ...

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 f ...

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 He ...

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 Govern ...

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 an ...

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 whi ...

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 ...

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 iN ...

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 Conv ...

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. &n ...

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 testi ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 t ...

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 Fed ...

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- ...

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 th ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Euro ...

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 p ...

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 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.   ...

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 developmen ...

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 ...

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 1 ...

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 u ...

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. &nb ...

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 econ ...

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 th ...

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, Switz ...

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 Februa ...

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: Bu ...

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 20 ...

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 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 Cou ...

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, req ...

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 Africa ...

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 Saturda ...

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.   ...

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 ...

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 I ...

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 Ram ...

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 Po ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Afric ...

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 ...

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 Aff ...

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 Cooperat ...

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, w ...

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 2 ...

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 crim ...

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 t ...

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 Territor ...

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 Bogdano ...

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 o ...

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 fir ...

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 Dece ...

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 ...

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 Pr ...

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 fo ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 N ...

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 Min ...

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 t ...

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 D ...

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 Wednesd ...

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 Uni ...

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 D ...

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 pr ...

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 humanita ...

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 ...

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, th ...

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 Ext ...

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 A ...

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 P ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Su ...

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 Ta ...

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 Is ...

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 Arabi ...

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 Nat ...

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 countr ...

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 & ...

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 ...

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 Foreig ...

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 Afric ...

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 ...

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 ...

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 Gaz ...

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 w ...

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 ...

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 ...