Posts in category: Media Statement

Media Statement   13 September 2023   Deputy Minister Botes to host Argentine Secretary of Foreign Affairs for Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will on Thursday, 14 September 2023, host the Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Argentine Republic, Ambassador Pablo Anselmo Tettamanti, for Political Consultations.   The objectives of the meeting are to review bilateral

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 13 September 2023   A. Issues in the environment   G20 Summit   1.1. Cabinet congratulated Prime Minister Modi and India for hosting a successful G20 Summit and the admission of the African Union (AU) as a full member of the G20. 1.2. South Africa under the leadership of His Excellency, President Cyril Ramaphosa advocated for the admission of

We are One Earth, One Family, and we share One Future. We, the Leaders of the G20, met in New Delhi on 9-10 September 2023, under the theme ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’. We meet at a defining moment in history where the decisions we make now will determine the future of our people and our planet. It is with the philosophy of living in harmony with our

Media Statement   9 September 2023   South Africa offers condolences to Government and people of the Kingdom of Morocco following earthquake tragedy   Deputy President Paul Mashatile has on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa as well as the Government and people of South Africa, joined the international community in expressing condolences to the Kingdom of Morocco following the devastating earthquake that claimed hundreds of

Media Statement   8 September 2023   President Ramaphosa arrives in New Delhi to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit   President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, 8 September 2023, arrived in New Delhi, Republic of India to participate in the G20 Leaders’ Summit scheduled for 9 – 10 September 2023.   The New Delhi G20 Summit is hosted under the theme “One Earth, One Family, One

Media Statement   7 September 2023   President Ramaphosa to attend the G20 Leaders’ Summit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a Working Visit to New Delhi, India to participate in the G20 Leaders’ Summit scheduled on 9-10 September 2023.   The summit will be hosted under the theme: “One Earth, One Family, One Future”.   The New Delhi Summit will focus on the key

Media Statement   7 September 2023   Deputy Minister Botes concludes Visit to the African Union in Ethiopia   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his visit to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he participated in the Validation Workshop of the Principles and Guidelines of the Use of Digital and Social Media in Elections.   The General Assembly of

Media Statement   6 September 2023   Deputy Minister Botes to participate in the validation meeting of Continental Elections Management Bodies   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will on Wednesday, 6 September 2023, participate in the Validation Workshop of the Principles and Guidelines of the Use of Digital and Social Media in Elections in Africa, to be held in

Media Statement   31 August 2023   Deputy President concludes a historic Working Visit to South Sudan   Deputy President Paul Mashatile has concluded a successful Working Visit to the Republic of South Sudan. The purpose of the visit was to assess the latest developments and progress in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan

Media Statement   31 August 2023   Minister Pandor undertakes a Working Visit to Moroni, Comoros – 1 September 2023   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will pay a Working Visit to Moroni, Comoros, tomorrow, 1 September 2023, to have a bilateral meeting with her Comorian counterpart, His Excellency, Dhoihir Dhoulkamal, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.  

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 30 August 2023   A. Issues in the environment   BRICS XV Summit and the Johannesburg II Declaration   1.1. South Africa hosted a successful BRICS XV Summit that adopted the historic Johannesburg II Declaration. 1.2. Cabinet expressed its appreciation to Team South Africa ably led by our State President, His Excellency Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa who ensured the Summit

Media Statement   28 August 2023   Deputy President Mashatile arrives in South Sudan   Deputy President Paul Mashatile has arrived in Juba, the Republic of South Sudan, to assess the latest developments in the implementation of the Revitalised Agreement on the Resolution of Conflict in the Republic of South Sudan (R–ARCSS) and to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries.   Deputy President Mashatile’s

Media Statement   27 August 2023   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini visits Singapore for the Singapore–Sub-Saharan Africa High-Level Ministerial Exchange Conference   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, will participate in the Fourth Singapore–Sub-Saharan Africa High Level Ministerial Exchange Conference (SSSAHLME) and the Sixth Africa–Singapore Business Forum, taking place in Singapore from 29-31 August 2023.   The theme for SSSAHLME 2023

Media Statement   26 August 2023   Deputy President Mashatile undertakes an Official Visit to South Sudan   Deputy President Paul Mashatile, in his capacity as a Special Envoy to South Sudan, will undertake an Official Visit to the Republic of South Sudan from 28–31 August 2023.   Deputy President Mashatile will meet with His Excellency President Salva Kiir Mayardit, Vice Presidents, Ministers, South Sudan

Media Statement   24 August 2023   South Africa to co-chair China–Africa Leaders Round Table Dialogue   President Cyril Ramaphosa will later today, 24 August 2023, co-chair the China–Africa Leaders Round Table along with His Excellency President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China after the XV BRICS Summit.   The theme for the Roundtable is: “Promoting African Integration and Jointly Building a High-Level

We, the Leaders 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 in Sandton, South Africa, from 22 to 24 August 2023 for the XV BRICS Summit held under the theme: “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism”.

Media Advisory   23 August 2023   BRICS Chair President Ramaphosa to announce the outcomes of the XV BRICS Summit   The President of the Republic of South Africa and Chair of BRICS, His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa, will announce the outcomes of the XV BRICS Summit on Thursday, 24 August 2023, at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg.   For XV BRICS Summit accredited media only.

Media Advisory   21 August 2023   Media Programme: Incoming People’s Republic of China State Visit   ARRIVAL OF MEDIA AND ISSUING OF MEDIA ACCREDITATION   Date: Tuesday, 22 August 2023 Time: 07h30–08h30 Venue: Government Avenue Entrance, Union Buildings   WELCOME CEREMONY   Date: Tuesday, 22 August 2023 Time: 10h30 Venue: Nelson Mandela Amphitheater, Union Buildings   SOUTH AFRICA–CHINA OFFICIAL TALKS   Date: Tuesday, 22

Media Statement   20 August 2023   President Ramaphosa to address the nation   President Cyril Ramaphosa will this evening, 20 August 2023, address the nation on South Africa’s Foreign Policy and the upcoming BRICS Summit.   The SABC will provide feed to all media and PresidencyZA will also live stream the proceedings.   The address is scheduled to take place at 20h00.   Media

Media Statement   19 August 2023   President Ramaphosa to host President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China on a State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 22 August 2023, host His Excellency President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China on a State Visit to South Africa.   The welcome ceremony will take place on Tuesday morning at the

Media Statement   16 August 2023   President Ramaphosa arrives in Luanda for 43rd Ordinary SADC Summit   President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Luanda, in the Republic of Angola, to participate in a summit of Southern African leaders who will focus on sustainable industrialisation of the region.   The 43rd Ordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development

President Ramaphosa to attend 43rd Ordinary SADC Summit in Angola   President Cyril Ramaphosa will undertake a Working Visit to Luanda, in the Republic of Angola, on 16 and 17 August 2023, to participate in a summit of Southern African leaders who will focus on sustainable industrialisation of the region.   The 43rd Ordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Southern

South Africa, as Chair of BRICS, is hosting the XV BRICS Summit at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg from 22 to 24 August 2023 under the theme: BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development, and Inclusive Multilateralism.

At the invitation of Her Excellency, Dr Naledi Pandor, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency, Dr Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran paid an official visit to the Republic of South Africa on 10 August 2023 to co-chair the Fifteenth Session of the Joint Commission of Cooperation.

Media Invite   9 August 2023   Minister Pandor to co-chair the SA–Iran Joint Commission of Cooperation with her counterpart   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Dr Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, on Thursday, 10 August 2023, in Pretoria for the15th Session of the South Africa-Iran Joint Commission of Cooperation

Media Advisory   8 August 2023   South Africa to host BRICS Trade Fair at Gallagher, Midrand   South Africa, through the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic), together with the South African BRICS Business Council, will host the BRICS Trade Fair at the Gallagher Convention Centre, in Midrand from 19-23 August 2023. The fair will be officially opened by the Minister of

Media Invite   8 August 2023   DIRCO to brief the media on logistical arrangements for the XV BRICS Summit   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation will brief the media on logistical arrangements for the XV BRICS Summit. The briefing will take place virtually on Thursday, 10 August 2023   It is expected that the briefing will focus on final media logistics arrangements,

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 8 August 2023   A. Issues in the Environment   South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO) Western Cape taxi strike   1.1. Cabinet was briefed about the ongoing impasse between SANTACO Western Cape and the City of Cape Town, which has escalated into a violent strike as a result of the impounding of taxi vehicles by the City of

Media Invite   4 August 2023   Minister Pandor to address the media on the BRICS state of readiness   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will on Monday, 7 August 2023 address members of the media on South Africa’s state of readiness to host the XV BRICS Summit, scheduled for 22 to 24 August 2023 at the Sandton Convention Centre.

Media Invite   3 August 2023   Minister Pandor to host her New Zealand counterpart in Cape Town   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host the Minister of Foreign Affairs of New Zealand, Hon. Nanaia Mahuta, on Friday, 4 August 2023, in Cape Town.   It is expected that the two Ministers will discuss bilateral relations between South Africa

Media Invite   31 July 2023   Minister Pandor to host Japanese counterpart and launch Mapungubwe Dialogues   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, Minister Pandor will on Tuesday, 01 August 2023, host the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr Yoshimasa HAYASHI. The two Ministers will hold consultations focussing on various bilateral and multilateral issues of mutual interest.   The

Media Advisory   29 July 2023   Minister Pandor to undertake a Working Visit to Ethiopia to co-chair the Fourth Session of the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) on Monday, 31 July 2023   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will undertake a Working Visit to Ethiopia to co-chair the Fourth Session of the Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) with her Counterpart, the

Media Statement   27 July 2023   South Africa condemns the coup d’état in the Republic of Niger   The Government of the Republic of South Africa condemns the coup d’état in the Republic of Niger and calls on the military establishment to ensure the safety of President Mohamed Bazoum. The Government further calls for the return of the military forces to their barracks and

Media Statement   27 July 2023   Deputy Minister Botes concludes Working Visit to Chile and Uruguay   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his successful Working Visit to the Republic of Chile and the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, which took place from 22 – 26 July 2023.   The purpose of the visits was to strengthen political,

Media Statement   26 July 2023   President Ramaphosa arrives in the Russian Federation for the Second Russia–Africa Summit   President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in St. Petersburg in the Russian Federation to lead South Africa’s participation in the Second Russia–Africa Summit, which takes on 27 and 28 July 2023.   The Summit, which aims to foster mutually beneficial cooperation and partnerships between Russia and

Media Statement   24 July 2023   President Ramaphosa to lead SA delegation at Second Russia–Africa Summit in St. Petersburg   President Cyril Ramaphosa will participate in the Second Russia–Africa Summit which takes place in St. Petersburg in the Russian Federation on 27 and 28 July 2023.   The Summit, which aims to foster mutually beneficial cooperation and partnerships between Russia and the African continent,

Media Statement   22 July 2023   Deputy Minister Botes visits Chile   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will undertake an Official Visit to the Republic of Chile from 22 to 25 July 2023 to co-chair the Eighth Meeting of the Joint Consultative Mechanism (JCM) between South Africa and Chile.   South Africa and Chile enjoy cordial diplomatic relations

Media Statement   19 July 2023   South Africa finalises XV BRICS Summit format   President Cyril Ramaphosa has confirmed South Africa’s readiness to host the historic XV Summit of BRICS nations – Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It will be the first BRICS Summit to be hosted in person since the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic and the subsequent global restrictions.  

Media Statement   19 July 2023   Minister Pandor leads South African delegation to a SADC Ministerial Meeting in Namibia   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will lead a South African Government delegation in the 25th Ordinary Meeting of the SADC Ministerial Committee of the Organ (MCO) on 20-21 July 2023 in Windhoek, Namibia. The delegation includes the Minister of

Media Statement   15 July 2023   President Ramaphosa and President Putin discuss Black Sea Grain Initiative   President Ramaphosa had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Putin today following the call the President had with UNSG Antonio Guterres about the ongoing negotiations between Russia and the UN about the Black Sea Grain Initiative.   The discussions also revolved around the African Leaders Peace Mission

Media Statement   14 July 2023   President Ramaphosa hosts discussion with Deputy President of the Transitional Sovereign Council of Sudan   President Cyril Ramaphosa hosted a courtesy call yesterday on Thursday, 13 July 2023, by Mr Malik Agar Eyre Nganyoufa, Deputy President of the Transitional Sovereign Council of Sudan, which focused on recent events in Sudan and international efforts to end the conflict and

Media Statement   13 July 2023   DIRCO expresses serious concern over incarceration of two South African nationals in Equatorial Guinea   The Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Mr Zane Dangor, was disturbed to learn of the sentence handed down to two South African nationals, namely Mr Peter Shane Huxham and Mr Frederic Johannes Potgieter, in Equatorial Guinea. He expressed

Media Statement   13 July 2023   South Africa and Ireland to strengthen political and economic relations   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host the Irish Deputy Prime Minister (Tánaiste), Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister for Defence, Mr Micheál Martin, for a bilateral meeting on Tuesday, 18 July 2023. The meeting is expected to discuss South Africa-Ireland bilateral

Media Statement   12 July 2023   Minister Pandor to attend and participate in the 43rd Session of the African Union Executive Council, in Nairobi from 13 to 14 July 2023   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will attend and participate in the 43rd Session of the AU Executive Council in Nairobi from 13 to 14 July 2023.   This

Media Statement   08 July 2023   NAM remains relevant in addressing challenges and opportunities for developing countries, says Deputy Minister Botes   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, led the South African delegation to the Ministerial Meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Coordinating Bureau (CoB) in Baku, Azerbaijan, on 05 and 06 July 2023. The meeting was held under

Media Statement   6 July 2023   President Ramaphosa concludes visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo   President Cyril Ramaphosa has concluded a successful visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo where together with President Félix Tshisekedi, co-chaired the Heads of State and Government segment of the 12th session of the DRC –South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC).   The BNC which was held today,

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 5 July 2023   A. Issues in the environment   Energy   1.1. Cabinet welcomed the improvement in Eskom’s Energy Availability Factor, which is now closer to 70%. About 400 megawatts (MW) have been added to the grid and planned maintenance has improved in a short space of time. 1.2. Cabinet also noted the decision by the Department of

Media Statement   4 July 2023   Deputy Minister Alvin Botes leads South Africa’s delegation to the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Ministerial Meeting of the Coordinating Bureau (CoB) in Azerbaijan   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr. Alvin Botes, will lead the South African delegation to the Ministerial Meeting of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Coordinating Bureau (CoB) to be held in Baku, Azerbaijan

Media Alert   29 June 2023   Media accreditation for the XV BRICS Summit, Johannesburg, South Africa   South Africa will host the XV BRICS Summit at the Sandton Convention Centre in Sandton, Johannesburg, from 22 to 24 August 2023.   The Summit will take place under the theme: “BRICS and Africa: Partnership for Mutually Accelerated Growth, Sustainable Development and Inclusive Multilateralism”.   Only bona

Media Statement   29 June 2023   Minister Pandor to attend the Female Foreign Ministers Meeting in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia – 29-30 June 2023   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has arrived in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, to attend a two-day Female Foreign Ministers Meeting, scheduled to start today, Thursday, 29-30 June 2023.   To be held for the first time in Mongolia,

Media Statement   29 June 2023   President Ramaphosa arrives in Eswatini for the Southern Africa Customs Union Summit   President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning, Thursday, 29 June 2023, arrived in the Kingdom of Eswatini to participate at the 8th Southern Africa Customs Union (SACU) Heads of State and Government Summit.   The President‘s working visit at the SACU Heads of State and Government

Media Statement   27 June 2023   President Ramaphosa to participate at the Eighth Southern Africa Customs Union Summit in Eswatini   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 29 June 2023, participate at the Eighth Southern Africa Customs Union (SACU) Heads of State and Government Summit in the Kingdom of Eswatini.   The President‘s working visit at the SACU Heads of State and Government Summit

Media Invite   25 June 2023   Minister Pandor to host the German Foreign Minister for a Bi-National Commission   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will on Tuesday, 27 June 2023, host the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federal Republic of Germany, Ms Annalena Baerbock the 11th Meeting of South Africa–Germany Bi-National Commission.   The Bi-National Commission is the

Media Statement   24 June 2023   Minister Pandor undertakes Working Visit to Angola   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will undertake a Working Visit to the Republic of Angola for diplomatic and political consultations with her counterpart, Ambassador Tete António, Minister of External Relations of the Republic of Angola. The visit is scheduled for, tomorrow, Sunday, 25 June 2023.

Media Statement   24 June 2023   Minister Pandor congratulates Adv Tlakula on her re-election to serve on CERD   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has congratulated Advocate Pansy Tlakula on her re-election to the UN Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD). Advocate Tlakula was re-elected to the Committee to serve for the term 2024–2028.   Advocate Tlakula

Media Statement   21 June 2023   President Ramaphosa to attend and participate in the New Global Financing Pact Summit in Paris   President Cyril Ramaphosa will attend and participate in the New Global Financing Pact Summit to be held in Paris, France on 22 – 23 June 2023 at the invitation of his counterpart, the President of the Republic of France, His Excellency Emmanuel

Media Statement   21 June 2023   Media Planning Advisory for Russia–Africa Summit   South Africa will be participating in the 2023 Russia–Africa Summit, which is scheduled to take place in St Petersburg, in the Russian Federation from 26-29 July 2023.   Media who wish to attend and cover the Summit are required to apply for accreditation on the link below, by no later than

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 21 June 2023   A. Issues in the environment   Recommendations of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of State Capture, Corruption and Fraud in the Public Sector, including Organs of State   1.1. Today, 22 June 2023, is exactly a year since The Presidency received the final report of the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into Allegations of

Media Statement   21 June 2023   President welcomes closer cooperation with the European partners   President Cyril Ramaphosa has described the Joint Working visit between Denmark and Netherlands as very opportune and important for forging closer cooperation, especially in the energy space.   Yesterday, 20 June 2023, the President hosted a joint working visit by the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mr Mark Rutte,

Media Statement   20 June 2023   Deputy Minister Mashego- Dlamini undertakes Official Visit to Mozambique   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, will travel to Maputo, Mozambique, from 20-21 June 2023 to co-chair the South Africa-Mozambique Midterm Review (MTR) of the Bi-National Commission (BNC).   South Africa and Mozambique enjoy fraternal relations which were cemented during the struggle against

Media Statement   18 June 2023   President Ramaphosa to host Joint Working Visit by Prime Minister Rutte of the Netherlands and Prime Minister Frederiksen of Denmark   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 20 June 2023, host a Joint Working Visit by the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Mr Mark Rutte, and the Prime Minister of Denmark, Ms Mette Frederiksen.   The visit will

Media Statement   18 June 2023   Minister Pandor to host the French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will on Monday, 19 June 2023, receive her counterpart from the French Republic, Ms Catherine Colonna, who is undertaking a Working Visit to South Africa.   The Working Visit will provide an opportunity for both

Media Statement   18 June 2023   President Ramaphosa presses Africa’s proposal for a path to peace   President Ramaphosa has today, 18 June 2023, concluded a two-days working visit to the Ukraine and the Russian Federation where African leaders proposed a path for peace to the 16-month long conflict between the two countries.   The proposal presented by African leaders on a mission to

Media Statement   17 June 2023   President Ramaphosa arrives in St Petersburg for second leg of African Peace Initiative Mission   President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, 17 June 2023, arrived in St Petersburg in the Russian Federation for the continuation of the African Peace Mission to the Ukraine and Russia conflict.   His arrival in Russia’s cultural capital, follows constructive discussions with President Volodymyr

Media Statement   15 June 2023   President Ramaphosa to participate in African Peace Initiative Mission to Ukraine and the Russian Federation   President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Thursday 15 June 2023, travelled to Poland, en route to Ukraine and the Russian Federation as part of his participation in the African Peace Mission aimed at a peaceful resolution of the conflict between Ukraine and Russia.

Media Statement   15 June 2023   President Ramaphosa concludes visit to Geneva, Switzerland   President Cyril Rammaphosa has today, Thursday 15 June 2023, concluded his Working Visit to Geneva, Switzerland encouraged by the emerging social contract that aims to give effect to a shared responsibility to create a more just and equitable Society.   President Ramaphosa was in Geneva to participate and address the

Media Statement   15 June 2023   South African candidate elected to serve as a judge on ITLOS   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation is pleased to announce the election of Advocate Thembile, Elphus Joyini to serve as a judge on the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS) to commence his 9-year term in October 2023.   Advocate Joyini is

Media Statement   14 June 2023   President Ramaphosa to participate in ILO World of Work Summit in Geneva   President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Wednesday, 14 June 2023, arrived in Geneva, Switzerland on a Working Visit to participate in the World of Work Summit, hosted by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).   The two-day Summit, between the 14th and 15 June 2023, is taking

Media Statement   13 June 2023   Minister Pandor expresses concern regarding the treatment of South African businesses in Cameroon   Following the Official Working Visit and subsequent developments of Minister Naledi Pandor to Yaoundé, Cameroon on 14 April 2023, to promote trade between South Africa and Cameroon, the Minister expressed her commitment to building people to people as well as business to business relations

Media Statement   11 June 2023   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini arrives in the UAE on an Official Visit   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for an Official Visit.   The Deputy Minister will co-chair the Third Session of the South Africa–UAE Joint Commission (JC) on 13 June 2023 with her host

Media Statement   10 June 2023   President Ramaphosa briefs President Xi Jin Ping on African Peace Mission to Ukraine and Russia   President Cyril Ramaphosa has briefed Chinese President Xi Jin Ping on the African Leaders Peace Mission to Ukraine and Russia.   President Ramaphosa noted the peace plan that has been proposed by China and affirmed South Africa’s and the African leaders support

Media Statement   09 June 2023   Condemnation of the Israeli Government’s sponsored killing of a three-year-old Palestinian child   South Africa joins the international community in strongly condemning the killing of a three-year-old Palestinian toddler, Muhammad Tamimi.   The continuous acts of aggression by the Israeli defence force since the start of 2023, have resulted in the killing of at least 156 defenceless Palestinians

Media Statement   08 June 2023   President Ramaphosa discusses upcoming engagements with President Putin   President Cyril Ramaphosa had a telephone conversation with President Vladimir Putin where he briefed President Putin on the upcoming African Leaders Peace Mission to Ukraine and Russia.   The two leaders also discussed the Russia-Africa Summit that is scheduled to take place at the end of July in St.

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 7 June 2023   A. Issues in the environment   Cholera outbreak Management   1.1. Cabinet welcomed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s planned visit to and interaction with residents of Hammanskraal. 1.2 The visit did take place today, Thursday, 08 June 2023, and this engagement gave the President the opportunity to hear directly from residents about the challenges they face. 1.3.

Media Statement   05 June 2023   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini undertakes Official visit to Kazakhstan   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, will travel to Astana, Kazakhstan, from 6-9 June 2023 to co-chair the Seventh Session of Political Consultations with her Kazakhstani counterpart, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs for Africa and Asia, Mr Kanant Tumysh.   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini will

On behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent a message of condolences to the Government and the people of India, in particular the families of the deceased following the train accident on Friday, 02 June 2023, which claimed the lives of more than 200 people in the state of Odisha. President Ramaphosa said the South African Government

Media Statement   2 June 2023   President Ramaphosa to host President Marcelo Rebelo De Sousa of the Portuguese Republic on a State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 6 June 2023, host the President of the Portuguese Republic, His Excellency Marcelo Rebelo De Sousa, on a State Visit to South Africa.   President Ramaphosa will in honour of President Marcelo Rebelo De

Media Alert   1 June 2023   Live streaming of the meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Intentional Relations   The Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, taking place today and tomorrow (1 – 2 June 2023) will be streamed live on the BRICSza Facebook and Twitter pages.   The opening session starts at 15h00 today, followed by

Media Alert   30 May 2023   Collection of Media Accreditation for the BRICS Ministers’ Meeting   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) wishes to advise the media that they may collect accreditation cards at 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa, Cape Town, for the meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Relations between 09h00 — 17h00 on 31 May 2023.

Media Statement   30 May 2023   BRICS Conferences Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges   On 29 May 2023, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation issued a notice in the government gazette on Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges for the upcoming BRICS Foreign Ministers meeting in Cape Town and BRICS Summit to be held in Johannesburg in August. This is a standard conferment of immunities that

Media Alert   28 May 2023   Collection of Media Accreditation for the BRICS Ministers’ Meeting   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) wishes to advise the media that the collection of accreditation cards for the meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Relations will not commence on Monday, 29 May 2023, as previously announced. Further updates will be issued. The

Media Alert   25 May 2023   Arrangements for the meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Relations   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host the meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, which is scheduled for 01-02 June 2023 at the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa in Cape Town, South Africa.   The

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 24 May 2023   A. Issues in the Environment   Energy   1.1. Cabinet noted the progress made in the implementation of the Energy Action Plan, while it acknowledges significant constraints that still remain against the national grid. 1.2. As the country enters the Winter period, Cabinet welcomed the finalisation of the Contract for 400 megawatts (MW) of additional

Media Statement   21 May 2023   Minister Pandor to attend the Launch of the Ninth Pan-African Congress in Lomé, Togo   At the invitation of the Togolese Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and Togolese Abroad, HE Prof Robert Dussey, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor has arrived in Lomé, Togo, to attend the Launch Ceremony of the Ninth Pan-African

Media Statement   20 May 2023   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini arrives in China on an Official Visit   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has arrived in People’s Republic of China for an official visit. During her visit, the Deputy Minister will co-chair the 12th South Africa–China Strategic Dialogue (SD) on 24 May 2023 with Vice Minister of the Ministry of Foreign

Media Statement   19 May 2023   Minister Pandor concludes successful Official Visit to Portugal   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has concluded her successful Official Visit to Lisbon, Portugal, where she met her counterpart, João Gomes Cravinho, for bilateral talks.   Ministers Pandor and Cravinho reviewed the state of bilateral relations between South Africa and Portugal, noting with satisfaction

Media Advisory   18 May 2023   South Africa to host the Meeting of BRICS Foreign Ministers in Cape Town   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host the Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Relations on 01 June 2023 in Cape Town. The mid-term meeting provides an opportunity for BRICS Foreign Ministers to reflect on regional

Media Statement   18 May 2023   Deputy Minister Botes to host his UK counterpart for bilateral talks   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will on Thursday, 18 May 2023, host his United Kingdom counterpart, Mr Andrew Mitchell, Minister of State for Development and Africa of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office for bilateral talks.   The meeting is

Media Statement   17 May 2023   Minister Pandor undertakes Official Visit to Portugal   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will undertake an Official Visit to Portugal on 18-19 May 2023 at the invitation of the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Portugal, Mr João Gomes Cravinho.   Bilateral relations between Portugal and South Africa remain strong. The two countries collaborate

Media Invite   17 May 2023   Official memorial service for the late Ambassador Masetlha   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will host the official memorial service for the late Ambassador Billy Masetlha on Thursday, 18 May 2023.   Ambassador Masetlha passed away on Sunday, 14 May 2023, whilst serving as South Africa’s ambassador to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria, also

Media Statement   16 May 2023   Government welcomes African Peace Leaders mission to Russia and Ukraine   Government has welcomed the initiative by African Heads of State to lead and facilitate peace talks aimed at resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The African leaders’ peace mission was presented by President Cyril Ramaphosa to both President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during separate telephone calls.  

Media Alert   14 May 2023   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini to address the Opening Session of the Sixth Pan-African Parliament   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, is scheduled to deliver a statement during the opening of the Ordinary Session of the Sixth Pan-African Parliament (PAP) on Monday, 15 May 2023.   The Chairperson of the African Union (AU) and

Media Statement   14 May 2023   Ambassador Masetlha’s passing   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) is deeply saddened by the passing of South Africa’s ambassador to the Republic of Algeria, HE Billy Masetlha.   Ambassador Masetlha passed on today, 14 May 2023, after a long illness.   Ambassador Masetlha has served the government in various capacities, including as Director General of

Media Advisory   12 May 2023   President’s Special Envoys to brief the media   The Special Envoys sent recently by President Cyril Ramaphosa to the United States to share information and exchange ideas will brief the media on Saturday, 13 May 2023.   Led by Dr Sydney Mufamadi, the Special Envoys have returned from their tour of the United States, where they had open

Press Statement   12 May 2023   The South African Government demarches the US Ambassador   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has demarched the United States Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben E Brigety, and expressed the South African Government’s utter displeasure with his conduct and statements made yesterday, alleging that South Africa sold weapons to Russia.   DIRCO finds this behaviour by

Media Statement   12 May 2023   President Ramaphosa to host Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on an Official Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 16 May 2023, host Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong of the Republic of Singapore for an Official Visit in Cape Town.   The visit will be an opportunity for the two countries to strengthen their longstanding partnership

Media Statement   12 May 2023   South Africa and Norway join the international community in commemorating the killing of Al Jazeera journalist, Shireen Abu Akleh, in the Occupied West Bank   Yesterday, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) of the Republic of South Africa and the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, joined the international community in commemorating the one-year anniversary of the

Media Statement   11 May 2023   Presidency responds to claims of weapons supply to Russia made by the US Ambassador   The Presidency has noted with concern remarks attributed to the United States Ambassador to South Africa, Reuben E Brigety, alleging the supply by South Africa of weapons to Russia.   The Ambassador’s remarks undermine the spirit of cooperation and partnership that characterised the

Media Statement   10 May 2023   Deputy President Mashatile to host Vice President Márquez of Colombia for an Official Visit to South Africa   His Excellency Deputy President Paul Shipokosa Mashatile, will on Friday, 12 May 2023, host his counterpart Her Excellency Mrs Francia Elena Márquez, Vice President of the Republic of Colombia for an Official Visit to South Africa.   The objective of

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 10 May 2023   A. Issues in the environment   10 May – 29th Anniversary of the Inauguration of first democratically elected president   1.1. This Cabinet meeting took place exactly 29 years to the day when President Nelson Mandela was inaugurated as the first President of a democratic South Africa on 10th May 1994.  After three and a

Media Advisory   08 May 2023   Minister Pandor to deliver DIRCO’s Budget Vote Speech on Wednesday, 10 May 2023 at 15h00 at the Goodhope Chambers in Parliament   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will outline South Africa’s foreign policy priorities for the 2023/2024 financial year in a Budget Vote Speech to be delivered in Parliament on Wednesday, 10 May

Media Statement   8 May 2023   President Ramaphosa concludes a Working Visit in Namibia to participate in the SADC Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit   President Cyril Ramaphosa in his capacity as outgoing Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, has called for a coordinated approach to restore peace and security in the SADC region.   The President supported by his

Media Statement   8 May 2023   President Ramaphosa to participate in SADC Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit in Namibia   President Cyril Ramaphosa will, in his capacity as outgoing Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, attend the SADC Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit Plus and Force Intervention Brigade Troop Contributing Countries taking place in Windhoek, Namibia, on Monday, 08 May 2023.

Media Statement   08 May 2023   The South African Government welcomes the start of pre-negotiation talks between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces   The South African Government welcomes the start of pre-negotiation talks between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, which commenced in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, on 6 May 2023.   South Africa further joins the African Union in

Media Statement   6 May 2023   President Ramaphosa arrives in Bujumbura for the 11th ROM Summit   President Cyril Ramaphosa has this morning, Saturday, 06 May 2023, arrived in Bujumbura, Burundi, to participate in the 11th High Level Segment of the Regional Oversight Mechanism (ROM) of the Peace, Security and Cooperation (PSC) Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Great Lakes

Media Statement   5 May 2023   Message of condolence following mass shooting in Belgrade, Serbia   In this regard, the South African Government wishes to express its deepest condolences to the Government of the Republic of Serbia for the loss of lives following tragic shootings in Vračar and Mladenovac municipality of Serbia, on 3 and 4 May 2023.   On 03 May 2023, a

Media Statement   04 May 2023   Minister Pandor concludes successful Working Visit to Mauritius   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has concluded her successful Working Visit to Mauritius, where she and her Mauritian counterpart, Minister Alan Ganoo, signed the General Cooperation Agreement (GCA) between Mauritius and South Africa, ushering in a new era of relations between the two Southern

Media Statement   4 May 2023   President Ramaphosa to attend ROM Summit in Bujumbura, Burundi   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Friday, 05 May 2023, travel to Bujumbura, Burundi, to participate in the 11th High Level Segment of the Regional Oversight Mechanism (ROM) of the Peace, Security and Cooperation (PSC) Framework for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Great Lakes Region.  

Media Statement   02 May 2023   Minister Pandor arrives in Port Louis on a Working Visit   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has arrived in Port Louis, Mauritius, where she is scheduled to hold talks with the Mauritian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Honourable Alan Ganoo.   It is expected that the Working Visit will

Media Statement   02 May 2023   Minister Pandor on the Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa Statement   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has noted the statement issued by the Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa, calling on her to apologise for appearing to undermine the arts in an interview.   Minister Pandor apologises for

Media Statement   01 May 2023   Minister Pandor undertakes Working Visit to Mauritius   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is scheduled to visit Mauritius on 03-04 May 2023 for bilateral talks with the Mauritian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Honourable Alan Ganoo.   The Working Visit will provide the Ministers an opportunity to assess the

Media Advisory   29 April 2023   Minister Pandor to receive South Africans evacuated from Sudan   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will on Sunday, 30 April 2023, receive South African citizens evacuated from Sudan.   Members of the media are invited as follows:   Date: Sunday, 30 April 2023   Time: 09h00   Venue: OR Tambo International Airport (DIRCO

Media Advisory   29 April 2023   Update re: South Africans evacuated from Sudan   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) wishes to advise that due to unavoidable and necessary changes in the logistical arrangements, the arrival time of evacuees from Sudan has changed.   Another advisory, informing the media of the date, time and the airport will be issued as soon as

Media Advisory   28 April 2023   Minister Pandor to receive South Africans evacuated from Sudan   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will on Sunday, 30 April 2023, receive South African citizens evacuated from Sudan.   Members of the media are invited as follows:   Date: Sunday, 30 April 2023   Time: 08h00   Venue: Waterkloof Airforce Base   RSVP:

Media Statement   26 April 2023   Evacuation of South African nationals from Sudan   The South African Government is still working hard to ensure that its citizens and those from SADC and other countries are evacuated safely. We can confirm that the South African Government organised and paid for two busses to evacuate people from the danger zones.   We are grateful that Gift

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 26 April 2023   ISSUES IN THE ENVIRONMENT   SOUTH AFRICA INVESTMENT CONFERENCE 2023   1.1. Cabinet acknowledged the attainment of the R1.2 trillion investment mobilisation goal that was set by President Cyril Ramaphosa in 2018. Investment commitments made at the 5th South Africa Investment Conference enabled government to exceed the set target by R300 billion.   1.2. Although

Media Invite   24 April 2023   Deputy Minister Botes to launch the Romania Assistance Programme for Township and Rural Schools in South Africa   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, working in partnership with the Embassy of Romania, will participate in the launch of the Romania Assistance Programme for Township and Rural Schools in South Africa on Tuesday, 25

Media Statement   21 April 2023   President Ramaphosa concerned about the situation in Sudan   The South African Government is deeply concerned about the unfolding situation in Sudan, where violence erupted last week following a breakdown in negotiations on political and security sector reforms.   Over a prolonged period, the people of Sudan have endured instability and strife. The deterioration of the situation this

Media Invite   21 April 2023   South Africa to host BRICS Deputy Ministers and Special Envoys on the Middle East and North Africa   South Africa will host and chair the Ninth Session of the Meeting of BRICS Deputy Ministers and Special Envoys responsible for the Middle East and North Africa from Monday, 24 April to Wednesday, 26 April 2023. The meeting will take

Statement on the Cabinet discussions on energy of 19 April 2023   Cabinet was briefed about the current state of the electricity system as well as progress on the Energy Action Plan.   The meeting discussed short and medium-term measures to ensure energy security, taking into account our immediate energy needs.   Cabinet noted the presentation by Minister Ramakgopa and directed that a further assessment

Media Statement   19 April 2023   President Ramaphosa to host President Niinistö for a State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will host His Excellency President Sauli Väinämö Niinistö of the Republic of Finland on a State Visit to the Republic of South Africa.   President of Finland will undertake a State Visit to the Republic from 24 to 26 April 2023, at the invitation

Media Statement   19 April 2023   Message to South African citizens stranded in Sudan   The South African Government reiterates its appeal on the parties involved in the conflict in Sudan to heed international calls for an immediate ceasefire as unarmed civilians, including visitors from many parts of the world, remain stranded.   The South African Embassy in Khartoum is closely monitoring the situation

Media Invite   17 April 2023   Minister Pandor to host the Norway Minister of Foreign Affairs for High-Level Consultations   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will on Wednesday, 19 April 2023, host the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway, Ms Anniken Huitfeldt, for the Sixth Session of the South Africa–Norway High-Level Consultations.   The Ministers are expected to review

Media Statement   15 April 2023   South Africa calls for cessation of hostilities in Sudan   The Government of the Republic of South Africa has noted with concern and strongly condemns the fighting that has erupted this morning in several parts of Khartoum, and other areas outside the capital between the Sudan Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).   The South

Media Statement   14 April 2023   President Ramaphosa to host President Geingob of Namibia for a State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will host His Excellency President Hage Geingob of the Republic of Namibia who will undertake a State Visit to the Republic of South Africa on Thursday, 20 April 2023.   The visit aims to solidify bilateral relations between the two countries and

Media Statement   11 April 2023   South Africa hosts Fifth Investment Conference   President Cyril Ramaphosa will open and address the South Africa Investment Conference on Thursday, 13 April 2023.   South Africa Investment Conference (SAIC) is attended by delegates from varying industries in South Africa and across the world and will take place at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg.   In its

Media Statement   05 April 2023   South Africa condemns the Israeli attacks on Palestinian Muslim worshippers at the Al-Aqsa Mosque   The Government of the Republic of South Africa has noted with concern, the Israeli occupation forces assault on the Palestinian worshippers overnight at the Al-Aqsa Mosque. At least seven worshippers sustained injuries during the attacks and 400 Palestinians were arrested. They are being

Media Statement   03 April 2023   Minister Pandor arrives in Yaoundé, Cameroon for an Official Working Visit   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, arrived in Yaoundé, Cameroon, this afternoon for an Official Working Visit on 3–5 April 2023.   Minister Pandor’s programme in Cameroon includes a bilateral meeting with her counterpart, HE Lejeune Mbella Mbella, the Minister of External

Media Invite   31 March 2023   Deputy Minister Botes hosts first BRICS roadshow in Mpumalanga   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, in partnership with the Premier of Mpumalanga, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane, will host the first roadshow dedicated to South Africa’s chairing of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) on Tuesday, 4 April 2023.   The purpose

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 29 March 2023   A. Issues in the environment   Electricity   1.1. The Minister for Electricity, Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, undertook visits to 14 power stations for first-hand insight of the challenges facing Eskom at a power station level. 1.2. The visits allowed the Minister opportunities to engage with management, workers and unions at the coalface, with the aim

Media Advisory   29 March 2023   Minister Pandor to host the 17th Session of the SA–Russia Joint Inter-Governmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation   The Minister of International Relations and Co-operation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will co-chair the 17th South Africa-Russia Joint Inter-Governmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation with Mr Alexander Kozlov, Minister of Natural Resources and Environment of the Russian Federation on

Media Invite   27 March 2023   Deputy Minister Botes to co-chair the South Africa – Cuba Joint Consultative Mechanism   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and International, Mr Alvin Botes, will co-chair the 17th Joint Consultative Mechanism (JCM) with his counterpart, HE Mr Elio Rodríguez Perdomo, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Cuba, in Pretoria on Tuesday, 28 March 2023.   The last

Media Advisory   22 March 2023   Minister Pandor to host her Sri Lankan counterpart, HE Mr Ali Sabry in a Bilateral Meeting   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will this afternoon, at 13h30 host a bilateral meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, HE Mr Ali Sabry, who has undertaken a

Media Statement   21 March 2023   Minister Pandor concludes successful visit to the DRC   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has concluded her successful Working Visit to Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where she participated in the Meeting of the SADC Council of Ministers, held bilateral talks with her DRC counterpart and met representatives of South African businesses

Media Statement   20 March 2023   Minister Pandor to meet her DRC counterpart for Political Consultations   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will meet her counterpart from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Mr Christophe Lutundula, for diplomatic and political consultations on Tuesday, 21 March 2023, in Kinshasa, DRC.   The purpose of the consultation meeting is to prepare

Media Alert   19 March 2023   Minister Pandor to host the Inaugural Charlotte Maxeke African Women Leadership Awards in Gauteng   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host the Inaugural Charlotte Maxeke African Women Leadership Awards at the Sandton Convention Centre (SCC) on Saturday, 25 March 2023.   The event is aimed at recognising and honouring exceptional African Women

Media Statement   18 March 2023   Minister Pandor in Kinshasa for SADC and SA – DRC Meetings   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where she is leading a South African delegation to the Meeting of the SADC Council of Ministers, taking place on 18-19 March 2023.   The Council of Ministers

Media Statement   18 March 2023   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini concludes successful Working Visit to West Africa   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has concluded her Working Visit to the Republics of Benin and Togo.   Deputy Minister begun her tour in Benin, where she held successful talks with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Mr Agbenonci. The

Media Statement   17 March 2023   President Ramaphosa to host State Visit by Their Majesties the King and the Queen of the Belgians   President Ramaphosa to host State Visit by Their Majesties the King and the Queen of the Belgians.   Their Majesties the King and the Queen of the Belgians will undertake a State Visit to South Africa from 22 to 27

Media Statement   15 March 2023   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini undertakes Official Working Visit to West Africa   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has begun her Regional Working Visit to the Republics of Benin and Togo.   Deputy Minister Dlamini arrived in Cotonou, Benin, on 14 March 2023, where she is on an Official Working Visit and will hold

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 15 March 2023   At its meeting on Wednesday, 15 March 2023, Cabinet welcomed the newly appointed members and wished them well in their new responsibilities, and also emphasised the need for Cabinet as a whole to implement government priorities with urgency.   A. ISSUES IN THE ENVIRONMENT   Electricity   1.1. Cabinet welcomed the launch of the Resource

Media Statement   14 March 2023   President Ramaphosa offers condolences to nations affected by Cyclone Freddy   President Cyril Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and people, offered condolences to the Governments and citizens of Malawi, Mozambique and Madagascar which have been affected by Cyclone Freddy.   This tropical cyclone, which originated off the north-west of Australia in recent weeks and has travelled

Media Invite   14 March 2023   Minister Pandor to co-chair South Africa – Tanzania Ministerial Bi-National Commission   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will co-chair the South Africa – Tanzania Ministerial Bi-National Commission (BNC) with her Tanzanian counterpart, Dr Stergomena Tax, in Pretoria on Wednesday, 15 March 2023.   The BNC will take place ahead of the State Visit

Media Statement   13 March 2023   President Ramaphosa to receive Letters of Credence from Heads of Mission-Designate to South Africa   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 14 March 2022, receive letters of credence from Heads of Mission-Designate at a Credentials Ceremony in Pretoria.   The President will welcome 18 Heads of Mission-Designate who have arrived in South Africa to serve in diplomatic missions.

Media Statement   13 March 2023   South Africa observes Commonwealth Day   On 13 March 2023, member countries of the Commonwealth will commemorate Commonwealth Day.   The year 2022, was marked by several historic changes in the Commonwealth. During the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) that took place in Kigali, Rwanda on 24 and 25 June 2022, Rwanda assumed the chairship of the

Media Invite   13 March 2023   Minister Pandor to co-chair South Africa – Tanzania Ministerial Bi-National Commission   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will co-chair the South Africa – Tanzania Ministerial Bi-National Commission (BNC) with her Tanzanian counterpart, Dr Stergomena Tax, in Pretoria on Wednesday, 15 March 2023.   The BNC will take place ahead of the State Visit

Media Statement   12 March 2023   President to host Her Excellency President Hassan of Tanzania for State Visit   Her Excellency President Samia Suluhu Hassan, of the United Republic of Tanzania will pay a State Visit to South Africa on Thursday, 16 March 2023, at the invitation of President Cyril Ramaphosa.   The State Visit will crown the Second Session of the South Africa–Tanzania

Media Statement   07 March 2023   Minister Naledi Pandor to deliver the keynote address at the Annual Forbes Africa Leading Women’s Summit 2023   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will, tomorrow, Wednesday, 08 March 2023, deliver the keynote address at the Annual Forbes Africa Leading Women’s Summit 2023, scheduled to take place at the Sun Bet Arena, Time Square,

Media Statement   04 March 2023   Minister Naledi Pandor concludes her visit to New Delhi, India, where she attended the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting and 2023 Raisina Dialogue   On the conclusion of her highly successful visit to New Delhi, in India, to attend and participate in the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting (G20 FMM on 01 – 02 March 2023 and the Raisina Dialogue

Media Statement   03 March 2023   Message of condolence following the deaths and injuries from a rail crash in the Hellenic Republic   The South African Government wishes to express its condolences to the Government and people of the Hellenic Republic following the tragic loss of lives and injuries sustained following the rail crash that occurred near the town of Larissa on 28 February

Media Alert   02 March 2023   President Ramaphosa to host President of Tanzania on a State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will this month of March 2023, host his Tanzanian counterpart, President Samia Suluhu Hassan, for a State Visit scheduled to take place in Pretoria.   The State visit will simultaneously include the hosting of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) between both countries.   Members

Media Statement   1 March 2023   Statement on resignation of Deputy President David Mabuza   The Presidency wishes to advise that Deputy President David Mabuza has resigned as a Member of Parliament, ending his term as Deputy President of the country.   This follows his request to President Cyril Ramaphosa to step down from the position of Deputy President, which the President announced in

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 1 March 2023   A. Issues In The Environment   2023 Budget Speech   1.1. Cabinet welcomed the 2023 National Budget giving effect to critical interventions outlined by President Cyril Ramaphosa’s State of the Nation Address. The Speech detailed plans to tackle the energy challenge, reduce unemployment, poverty and the rising cost of living, including combating crime and corruption.

Joint Communiqué on the occasion of the State Visit by the President of the Republic of Uganda, HE Yoweri Museveni, to Pretoria, South Africa, 28 February 2023   At the invitation of HE Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, HE Mr Yoweri Museveni, President of the Republic of Uganda, paid a State Visit to the Republic of South Africa on 28

Media Statement   28 February 2023   Minister Naledi Pandor attends the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting and 2023 Raisina Dialogue in India   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will arrive in New Delhi, India, tomorrow, Wednesday, 01 March 2023, to participate in the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting (G20 FMM), scheduled to take place on 01 – 02 March 2023 and

Media Statement 26 February 2023 The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, will participate in the High-Level Segment of the 52nd Session of the United Nations (UN) Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, from 28 February to 02 March 2023 The HRC is a subsidiary body of the UN General Assembly. At the core of its mandate is the responsibility to

MEDIA ADVISORY Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Mr Nathi Mthethwa in his capacity as the Co-Chair of the International Cooperation, Trade and Security (ICTS) Cluster will lead a media briefing on international, trade and security matters on Monday at 10am at GCIS. Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Ms Barbara Creecy is also the Co-Chair of the ICTS Cluster. The briefing will unpack

Media Statement   23 February 2023   Minister Pandor to host her Sierra Leonese Counterpart, Prof. David J Francis in Cape Town, on Friday, 24 February 2023   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host her Sierra Leonese counterpart, His Excellency, Professor David J Francis, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Sierra Leone, on a Working Visit

Media Statement   23 February 2023   Explanation of vote on Resolution A/ES-11/L.7 on Ukraine during the 11th UNGA ESS, Thursday, 23 February 2023   South Africa continues to express its deep regret that the war in Ukraine, which marks its first anniversary, continues to destroy innocent lives and critical infrastructure, as well as displacing millions.   This is a war whose impact has resonated

Media Statement 22 February 2023 This note serves to inform the media about the postponement of the media briefing on the recent AU Summit, which was scheduled for tomorrow, 23 February 2023, due to unforeseen circumstances. The briefing will be rescheduled to a date still to be announced. DIRCO apologises for the inconvenience caused. ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION OR Tambo

Media Statement   22 February 2023   President Cyril Ramaphosa will host his Ugandan counterpart, President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, for a State Visit to Pretoria on Tuesday, 28 February 2023   President Museveni’s visit is directed at consolidating bilateral relations between the two countries, with discussions between the two Heads of State encompassing political, economic, regional, continental and international issues.   President Museveni will be

Media Invite 22 February 2023 The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will brief the media on Thursday, 23 February 2023, at 10h00 in Cape Town. The Briefing will be in a hybrid format. The link for those who which to joint the briefing virtually is below. https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_MWMyYTU3MjgtMmIwMS00NWZmLTk4YjItYWM3NjkzZTgxYjUx%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%2214450b3f-942f-4f12-b2e1-0197504c6a5e%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%2248e76660-47a7-423d-bfd6-69435c704b02%22%7d Meeting ID: 315 167 771 344 Passcode: HFZv29 The briefing will focus on the

Media Statement   22 February 2023   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, will host the Fifth South Africa – Philippines Bilateral Consultative Forum (BCF) on Thursday, 23 February 2023, in Pretoria.   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini will co-chair the BCF with Ms Theresa Lazaro, Undersecretary of Bilateral Relations and Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Affairs of the Department of

Media Advisory   22 February 2023   Minister Pandor to address the opening ceremony of the International Congress of Human Genetics in Cape Town   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will this afternoon, address the opening ceremony of the 14th International Congress of Human Genetics (ICHG 2023), scheduled to take place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC)’s Ballroom

Media Statement   19 February 2023   President welcomes AU Summit focus on continent’s progress   President Cyril Ramaphosa has hailed the just-concluded African Union Summit of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, as a platform that demonstrated the progressive impact of cooperation across the continent in meeting challenges and unlocking opportunities.   The President led South Africa’s participation in the African

Media Statement   17 February 2023   President Ramaphosa arrives in Ethiopia for the 36th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly of Heads of State and Government   President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Friday 17 February 2023, arrived in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, to attend the 36th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Assembly of Heads of State and Government to

Media Statement   16 February 2023   President Ramaphosa attends the 36th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa   President Cyril Ramaphosa will attend the 36th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Assembly of Heads of State and Government to be held on 18 and 19 February 2023 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.   The theme

Statement on the Cabinet Meeting of 15 February 2023   A. Issues in the environment   State of the Nation Address (SoNA)   1.1. Cabinet reaffirmed President Cyril Ramaphosa’s clarion call made in his 2023 State of the Nation Address for all South Africans to work together and leave no one behind as we tackle our country’s pressing challenges.   1.2. The President’s bold measures

Media Statement 12 February 2023 The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host H.E. Mr Ramtane Lamamra, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Community Abroad of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria on a Working Visit in Pretoria on Monday, 13 February 2023. The visit is aimed at deepening and strengthening the already existing good political relations dating back from

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, hosted the inaugural meeting of the Ministerial Committee on the Efficient Management of the annual Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages, on 10 February 2023, in Cape Town. The mandate and role of the Ministerial Committee is to provide strategic direction to support the efficient management of the annual Hajj and Umrah Pilgrimages and to ensure that

Media Advisory   09 February 2023   Klapmuts Community hosts an event to thank Minister Pandor for getting them a school   The community of Klapmuts, in Stellenbosch, Western Cape, will tomorrow, 10 February 2023, host an event to thank the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, for assisting them to get a new school.   Klapmuts Primary and Secondary School was

Media Statement   6 February 2023   President Ramaphosa offers condolences to Governments and People of Türkiye and Syria   President Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, expressed his deep sadness at the large-scale loss of life and extent of injuries inflicted by an earthquake that has affected the nations of Türkiye and Syria.   Reportedly, at least 2

Media Statement   02 February 2023   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini hosts Bangladesh’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs   The Deputy Minister of International Relations Ms Candith Mashego Dlamini, will host the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Mr Shahriar Alam, on Friday, 03 February 2023, in Pretoria. Mr Shahriar Alam is visiting South Africa from 01-06 February 2023.

Communiqué of the Extra-Ordinary SADC Troika Summit, 31 January 2023   The Extra-Ordinary Organ Troika Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), hereafter called Summit, was held on the 31st January, 2023.   Summit was officially opened and chaired by His Excellency Dr. Hage G. Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia, in his capacity as the Chairperson

Media Statement   31 January 2023   Message of condolence following the death and injuries from an earthquake in Islamic Republic of Iran   The South African Government wishes to express its condolences to the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran following the large-scale destruction caused as well as the loss of lives and the high number of injured persons during the

Media Alert   31 January 2023   South Africa hosts First BRICS meeting in Bela Bela   As Chair of BRICS for the year 2023, South Africa will host the first meeting of its tenure – the BRICS Sherpas and Sous-Sherpas – in Bela Bela, Limpopo Province, from 01-02 February 2023.   Professor Anil Sooklal, Ambassador-at-Large for Asia and BRICS and South Africa’s BRICS Sherpa

Media Statement   30 January 2023   President Ramaphosa to participate in Extraordinary Summit of SADC Organ Troika   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 31 January 2023, participate in a Southern African Development Community (SADC) Extraordinary Organ Troika Summit taking place in Windhoek, Namibia.   The 42nd SADC Summit of the Heads of State and Government held in August 2022 mandated the Chairperson of

Media Statement   30 January 2023   Deputy Minister Botes opens the African Regional Seminar on the Universalisation of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Mr Alvin Botes, opened the African Regional Seminar on the Universalisation of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) being held in Pretoria

Media Statement   27 January 2023   MTN tax liability dispute with Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA)   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, was this week briefed on the tax liability dispute between the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) and MTN.   Following the briefing, the Minister encouraged MTN to work closely with the authorities in Ghana to devise a solution.  

Press Statement   27 January 2023   Minister Pandor congratulates Adv Mojankunyane Gumbi on her appointment as the UN Special Adviser for Addressing Racism in the Workplace   On behalf of the South African Government, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has congratulated Adv Mojankunyane Gumbi for being appointed the United Nations Special Adviser for Addressing Racism in the Workplace.  

Media Advisory   26 January 2023   Minister Naledi Pandor to deliver the Keynote Address at the annual Kgoshi Mampuru II Commemoration   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will deliver a keynote address at the Annual Kgoshi Mampuru II Commemoration event on Saturday, 28 January 2023.   Kgoshi Mampuru II, was the brave King of the Bapedi people, who was

Media Invite   25 January 2023   Minister Pandor to co-chair SA – EU Ministerial Political Dialogue with EU High Representative, Mr Borrell   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will on 26 and 27 January 2023, co-chair the 15th South Africa–European Union (SA–EU) Ministerial Political Dialogue (MPD) with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, HE Mr

Media Alert 22 January 2023 Media arrangements for the SA – Russia Ministerial Meeting   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is scheduled to host the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Mr Sergey Lavrov, on Monday, 23 January 2023, in Pretoria for Bilateral Talks.   Media Programme:   07h30-09h00: Arrival of Media personnel and collection of accreditation 10h00: Photo opportunity

Media Invite   22 January 2023   Minister Pandor to host the Foreign Minister of the Hellenic Republic   The Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will on Tuesday, 24 January 2023, host her counterpart from the Hellenic Republic, Mr Nikolaos Dendias, on the occasion of his Working Visit to South Africa.   The visit provides an opportunity for

Media Statement 19 January 2023 DIRCO DG visits Palestine for Political Consultations   The Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Zane Dangor, will undertake a Working Visit to the State of Palestine to co-chair the Second Round of the South Africa – Palestine Political Consultations at Director-General level, scheduled for 22-25 January 2023 in Ramallah.   The visit will afford the

Media Invite 17 January 2023 Minister Pandor to host her Russian counterpart for Bilateral Talks   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is scheduled to host the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation, Mr Sergey Lavrov, on Monday, 23 January 2023, in Pretoria for Bilateral Talks.   Members of the Media interested in covering the meeting are requested to

Media Statement 13 January 2023 Minister Pandor’s message of condolence to the Ginwala family   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has learnt with sadness the news of the passing of Dr Frene Ginwala.   Dr Frene Ginwala was the first Speaker of the National Assembly of Parliament under the democratic dispensation. An esteemed member of the Order of Luthuli, she

Media Statement 09 January 2023 South Africa condemns riots in Brazil   South Africa strongly condemns the events that took place in Brazil this Sunday, 08 January 2023, that saw rioters storm the Congress and Supreme Court buildings in the capital city, Brasilia.   South Africa notes that the majority of the people of Brazil accepted the outcome of last year’s free and fair general

Media Invite 08 January 2023 Minister Pandor to host her Türkiysh counterpart in Pretoria   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host her Türkiysh counterpart, Mr Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, in Pretoria on Tuesday, 10 January 2023, for Political Consultations.   It is expected that the Türkiysh Minister’s visit will enhance political and economic relations between the two countries and deepen understanding

Press Statement 04 January 2023 South Africa’s Statement on the visit to Jerusalem’s Temple Mount by Israel’s National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir The Government of the Republic of South Africa expresses concern over the visit to the Temple Mount by Israel’s National Security Minister.   South Africa joins the international community in condemning the actions of National Security Minister Ben Gvir.   The action

Media Statement 01 January 2023 South Africa and the People’s Republic of China commemorate 25 years of Diplomatic Relations Today, 1 January 2023, marks the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of South Africa and the People’s Republic of China, which came into effect from 1 January 1998. Throughout the past 25 years, the two countries have deepened their wide-ranging

Press Release   30 December 2022   Minister Pandor to attend the Inauguration Ceremony of the Brazilian President-elect Mr Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Vice President-elect, Mr Geraldo José Rodrigues Alckmin Filho on 01 January 2023   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will represent President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Inauguration Ceremony of the President-elect of the Federative Republic of

Press Release   30 December 2022   Minister Pandor to attend the Inauguration Ceremony of the Brazilian President-elect Mr Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Vice President-elect, Mr Geraldo José Rodrigues Alckmin Filho on 01 January 2023   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will represent President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Inauguration Ceremony of the President-elect of the Federative Republic of

Media Statement   30 December 2022   President hails Pele as a global inspiration and champion of peace   President Cyril Ramaphosa has expressed his sadness at the passing of global football icon and social activist, Pelé.   Edson Arantes do Nascimento has passed away at the age of 82 after an extended illness.   President Ramaphosa offers his deepest sympathy to Pelé’s family and

Media Statement   24 December 2022   South African Statement on the Taliban’s ban on women from attending universities   South Africa is gravely concerned by the recent decision by the cabinet of Afghanistan announced on Tuesday 20 December 2022, to suspend education for female students at all public and private universities in Afghanistan.   South Africa notes the statement of United Nations Human Rights

Media Release   21 December 2022   South Africa condemns the scheduled executions of the seven university students in Myanmar   The South African Government is deeply concerned about the scheduled executions of the seven (7) Dagon University students by the military in Myanmar.   The South African Government urges the Myanmar military authorities to uphold their international obligations to promote and protect human rights,

Media Statement   14 December 2022   Minister Pandor leads the South African delegation to the United States – Africa Leaders’ Summit in Washington DC   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, arrives in Washington DC, United States of America, this morning (GMT – 5) to lead a South African Delegation to the Second United States-Africa Leaders’ Summit, scheduled to take

Media Invite   11 December 2022   Minister Pandor to address DIRCO’s end-of-the-year Media Briefing   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will address DIRCO’s end-of-the-year Media Briefing on Monday, 12 December 2022.   The Media Briefing will focus on some of South Africa’s foreign policy achievements, highlights and challenges for 2022 and provide a preview of the priorities for the

Media Statement   09 December 2022   Deputy Minister Botes concludes his Working Visit to Algeria   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooper, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his Working Visit to Algeria, where he participated in the Ninth High-Level Seminar on Peace and Security in Africa.   The purpose of the high-level seminar was to enhance coordination, cooperation and coherence between the

Media Statement   08 December 2022   Minister Pandor to address the Plenary Session of the World Science Forum in Cape Town   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will this afternoon, 08 December 2022, at 15h00 address the Plenary Session of the World Science Forum (WSF), currently underway, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in Cape Town.   The

Media Statement   08 December 2022   Minister Pandor to address the Plenary Session of the World Science Forum in Cape Town   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will this afternoon, 08 December 2022, at 15h00 address the Plenary Session of the World Science Forum (WSF), currently underway, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre in Cape Town.   The

Media Statement   08 December 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini to host her Australian counterpart for Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations, Ms Candith Mashego Dlamini, will host her Australian counterpart. Mr Tim Watts, for bilateral consultations on 09 December 2022. Mr Watts, the Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Commonwealth of Australia. is currently visiting South Africa as part of

Media Invite   07 December 2022   Minister Naledi Pandor to address the end-of-the-year Media Briefing   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will address DIRCO’s end-of-the-year Media Briefing, virtually, on Thursday, 08 December 2022.   The Briefing by the Minister will focus on some of the achievements the Department scored in 2022, challenges and highlights for 2023.   The Briefing

Media Invite   07 December 2022   Minister Naledi Pandor to address the end-of-the-year Media Briefing   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will address DIRCO’s end-of-the-year Media Briefing, virtually, on Thursday, 08 December 2022.   The Briefing by the Minister will focus on some of the achievements the Department scored in 2022, challenges and highlights for 2023.   The Briefing

Media Statement   06 December 2022   Deputy Minister Botes undertakes Working Visit to Algeria to take part in a High-Level Seminar on Peace and Security in Africa   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr. Alvin Botes, will undertake a Working Visit to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria to attend the Ninth High-Level Seminar on the promotion of Peace and Security

Media Statement   01 December 2022   South Africa and the Republic of Korea celebrate 30 years of Diplomatic Relations   The Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Korea are celebrating the 30th anniversary of Diplomatic Relations this year. Formal diplomatic relations between the RSA and the ROK were established on 1 December 1992, two years after the release of Mr Nelson Mandela

Media Invite   01 December 2022   Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to bestow the Grand Star of the Order of Jerusalem on Minister Naledi Pandor, 02 December 2022   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will be awarded the Grand Star of the Order of Jerusalem – the second highest level of Order awarded by the order of the President of

Media Statement   30 November 2022   Deputy Minister Botes to host his Polish counterpart for Bilateral Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will host his counterpart from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland, Mr Paweł Jabłoński, for Bilateral Political Consultations, which will be held in Pretoria on 01 December 2022.   The

Media Invite   28 November 2022   Minister Naledi Pandor to host her counterpart, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Nigeria, Mr George Onyeama, in Pretoria on 30 November 2022   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host her Nigerian counterpart, His Excellency, Mr Geoffrey Onyeama, in Pretoria on 30 November 2022, for the Mid-Term Review (MTR) of the Bi-National

Media Alert   23 November 2022   Scam Alert regarding Legalisation Services   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) would like to appeal to the public to be cautious of a legalisation scam whereby the Department’s name is being used to solicit money for legalisation services.   Legalisation services provided by DIRCO are free of charge, which include legalising official (public) documents executed within

Media Statement   22 November 2022   Message of condolences following the death and injuries from an earthquake in Indonesia   The South African Government wishes to express its condolences to the Government and people of Indonesia following the large-scale destruction and loss of hundreds of lives in the wake of the recent earthquake in the West Java Province.   The South African Government and

Media Statement   20 November 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini arrives in Bangladesh for the IORA Ministerial Meeting   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has arrived in Dhaka, Bangladesh, to attend the 22nd Meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Council of Ministers (COM). The meeting is scheduled to take place from 22-24 November 2022.   The Meeting

Media Statement   20 November 2022   President embarks on State Visit to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland   President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa will, at the invitation of His Majesty, King Charles III, conduct a State Visit to the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (UK) from 22 to 23 November 2022.   Royal State Visits are in the

Media Statement   07 November 2022   Deputy Minister Alvin Botes to host the Fourth Meeting of South Africa – Belgium Joint Commission   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will host the Fourth Meeting of the South Africa – Belgium Joint Commission in Pretoria on 08 November 2022. The Belgian delegation will be led by Ms Theodora Gentzis, the

Joint Communiqué issued by the Honourable Ministers Ambassador Albert Shingiro and Dr Naledi Pandor at the Inaugural Session of the Burundi – South Africa Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC), held on 4 November 2022, Bujumbura   1. At the invitation of the Hon. Ambassador Albert Shingiro, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation of the Republic of Burundi, Hon. Dr Naledi Pandor, Minister of International

Media Statement   03 November 2022   Deputy Minister Botes concludes his Working Visit to Eastern Europe   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his Working Visit to Azerbaijan, Georgia and Türkiye.   The purpose of the visit was to strengthen bilateral relations and discuss areas of cooperation in Trade and Investment, Mining, Energy, Defence, Higher Education as

Media Statement   03 November 2022   South Africa welcomes the agreement for peace in Ethiopia   The South African Government welcomes the successful negotiation and signing of the Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the Government of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF).   This Agreement signals a commitment to ending the use of force to settle differences and disputes and confirms the

Media Statement   03 November 2022   Unveiling of the First Nelson Mandela Statue in Bulgaria   The official unveiling of the first monument in Sofia in honour of the iconic world leader, Mr Nelson Mandela, will take place on Thursday, 03 November 2022. The ceremony will take place at 12h00 pm on 2 Nikolay Rakitin Street, in front of Polygraphia Office Center in Sofia.

Media Statement   03 November 2022   Minister Pandor undertakes a Working Visit to Bujumbura, Burundi to co-chair an Inaugural Session of the South Africa – Burundi Joint Commission for Cooperation on 04 November 2022   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has undertaken a Working Visit to Bujumbura, in the Republic of Burundi, to co-chair an Inaugural Burundi – South

Media Alert   02 November 2022   Media Briefing on AU-led negotiations for peace in Ethiopia   The High Representative of the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, His Excellency Olusegun Obasanjo, will brief the media this afternoon in Pretoria regarding the African Union-led negotiations to resolve the conflict in Ethiopia. The media briefing is scheduled as follows:   Date: Wednesday, 02 November 2022 Time: 15h00 Venue: DIRCO

Media Statement   31 October 2022   President Ramaphosa sends messages of condolence to India and Somalia   President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent messages of condolence to the Republic of India and the Federal Republic of Somalia following disasters that have led to the tragic deaths of scores of people in the two countries.   In India, more than 140 people perished following the collapse

Media Statement   31 October 2022   President Ramaphosa congratulates Mr Luiz Inácio Lula Da Silva following successful election   President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated Mr Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva on his successful election to the position of President of the Republic of Brazil.   Mr da Silva, who served as President of Brazil from 2003 to 2010, won the general election held on

Media Statement   30 October 2022   President Ramaphosa sends message of condolences to South Korea following Seoul tragedy   President Cyril Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, sent his heartfelt condolences to the Government and the people of South Korea following the tragic loss of life suffered in the capital, Seoul, during Halloween activities.   President Yoon

Joint Declaration at the conclusion of the Official Visit of his Excellency the President of the Government of the Kingdom of Spain to the Republic of South Africa   At the invitation of His Excellency Mr Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Mr Pedro Sánchez Pérez-Castejón President of the Government of Spain, undertook an Official Visit to the Republic

Media Statement   29 October 2022   Deputy Minister Botes in Türkiye for Bilateral Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will undertake a Working Visit to the Republic of Türkiye from 29 – 03 November 2022, where he is expected to co-chair Bilateral Political Consultations with the Türkiysh Deputy Minister, Mr Sedat Önal.   It is envisaged

Media Statement   26 October 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini concludes successful visit to the Central Africa Region   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has concluded her successful visit to the Central Africa region, where she visited the Republic of Equatorial Guinea and the Republic of Cameroon from 18-25 October 2022.   During her visit to Malabo, the Deputy

Media Statement   26 October 2022   President Ramaphosa to host President Sánchez of Spain   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 27 October 2022, host President Pedro Sánchez Pérez-Castejón of Spain on an Official Visit to Pretoria.   President Sánchez, who is the President of the Government of Spain, will be accompanied by the Spanish Minister for Industry, Trade and Tourism, Ms Reyes Maroto,

Media Statement   25 October 2022   Deputy Minister Botes arrives in Georgia for Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has arrived in Tbilisi, Georgia, where he will co-chair political consultations with the Deputy Foreign Minister, Ms Khatuna Totladze.   The political consultations will be the first at the Deputy Minister level, which is indicative of the

Media Statement   23 October 2022   Deputy Minister Botes visits Eastern Europe for Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will undertake a Working Visit to Azerbaijan, Georgia and Türkiye for Political Consultations with his counterparts.   The Deputy Minister will commence his visit in Baku from 24 October 2022. There, he will co-chair political consultations with

Media Alert   21 October 2022   DIRCO hosts Diplomatic Fair in Pretoria   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will host the annual Diplomatic Fair on Saturday, 22 October 2022, at the Union Buildings southern lawns in Pretoria.   The event brings together foreign diplomatic missions accredited to South Africa to showcase and promote their respective countries through the arts, music and

Media Statement   19 October 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini begins three-nation tour of the Central Africa Region   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has arrived in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, where she begins her three-nation tour of the Central Africa region.   The visit is aimed at strengthening political, diplomatic, trade and investment relations between South Africa and the

Joint Communiqué on the occasion of the State Visit by HE Mr Brahim Ghali, President of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, to the Republic of South Africa. 18 October 2022   1. On 18 October 2022, President Ramaphosa received the President of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic, H.E. er Brahim Ghali, on a State Visit to South Africa.   2. During their discussions, the two

Media Statement   18 October 2022   President Ramaphosa to host President of the Government of the Kingdom of Spain on an Official Visit   Members of the media are invited to apply for accreditation for the Official Visit by President Pedro Sánchez of the Government of the Kingdom of Spain to be held on 27 October 2022 in Pretoria.   The Official Visit to

Media Statement   17 October 2022   Minister Pandor to deliver the closing keynote address at the FT Africa Summit in London   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will participate in, and deliver the closing keynote address, at the Financial Times’ Africa Summit taking place in London, United Kingdom, on 17-18 October 2022.   Organised under the theme: “Investing in

Media Statement   16 October 2022   South Africa and Saudi Arabia cements relations as President Ramaphosa concludes State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Sunday 16 October 2022, concluded his State Visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia confident that both countries have cemented their continued bilateral cooperation and consolidated their strategic partnership.   President Ramaphosa visited the Kingdom at the invitation of

Media Statement   15 October 2022   Deputy Minister Botes concludes his Working Visit to the Czech Republic and Lithuania   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his Working Visit to the Czech Republic and Lithuania for Bilateral Political Consultations.   The Deputy Minister commenced his visit in Prague on 10 and 11 October 2022, where he met

Media Statement   14 October 2022   President Ramaphosa arrives in Saudi Arabia on a State Visit   His Excellency President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Friday, 14 October 2022, arrived in Jeddah, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia for a State Visit to take place on 15-16 October 2022.   President Ramaphosa’s visit is at the invitation of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques,

Media Statement   13 October 2022   Minister Pandor concludes successful Working Visit to Korea and Japan   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has today, 13 October 2022, concluded her successful Working Visit to the Republic of Korea and the State of Japan. Minister Pandor visited Seoul from 10-12 October 2022 and Tokyo from 12-13 October 2022.   In Seoul,

Media Statement   13 October 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini on a Working Visit to the Seychelles   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has arrived in the Seychelles, where she is scheduled to co-chair the Third Session of the Joint Commission of Cooperation between South Africa and the Seychelles on 14 October 2022.   The JCC is held on

Media Statement   13 October 2022   President Ramaphosa to host President of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic for a State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will host President Brahim Ghali of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR) for a State Visit on 18 October 2022 in Pretoria.   The visit aims to strengthen the already existing good political relations fortified by the strong historical

Media Statement   12 October 2022   Deputy Minister Botes undertakes an Official Visit to Lithuania   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, is on an Official Visit to Vilnius, Lithuania, on 12 – 13 October 2022. Deputy Minister Botes is participating in the Bilateral Political Consultations at the invitation of his counterpart, Vice Minister Mantas Adomėnas.   The Deputy

Media Statement   12 October 2022   Minister Pandor arrives in Japan on a Working Visit   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has arrived in Tokyo, Japan, where she is scheduled to co-chair the Japan – South Africa Partnership Forum with her counterpart, His Excellency Mr Hayashi Yoshimasa, on 13 October 2022.   The two delegations will seek to advance

Media Statement   09 October 2022   Deputy Minister Botes to co-chair the South Africa – Czech Republic Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will travel to Prague in the Czech Republic, to co-chair the South Africa – Czech Republic Political Consultations with his counterpart, Mr Martin Tlapa on Tuesday, 11 October 2022.   The visit is

Media Statement   09 October 2022   Minister Pandor to co-chair the inaugural Korea – South Africa Joint Cooperation Commission (JCC) and pay a Working Visit to Japan   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will visit the Republic of Korea and the State of Japan from 10 – 13 October 2022, where she will co-chair the inaugural Korea – South

Media Statement   08 October 2022   The Government of the Republic of South Africa extends its deepest condolences to the Government of the Kingdom of Thailand following the death of many Thai citizens and children during a mass shooting at a children’s day-care centre in the Northern Thai Province of Nong Bua Lamphu, on 6 October 2022   The Government and the people of

Media Statement   05 October 2022   Minister Pandor to deliver a keynote address at the Irish Solidarity with Anti-Apartheid Struggle in South Africa Exhibition   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will, this evening, 05 October 2022, deliver a keynote address at the launch of the Irish Solidarity with the Anti-Apartheid Struggle in South Africa Exhibition at the Freedom Park,

Media Statement   30 September 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini concludes visit to West Africa   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has concluded her visit to West Africa, where she visited Liberia and Sierra Leone.   The Deputy Minister began her visit in Monrovia, Liberia, where she handed over 79 200 doses of the J&J COVID-19 vaccine.   Whilst

Media Alert   30 September 2022   Minister Pandor to address the Second Charlotte Maxeke Breakfast with Female Heads of Mission   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will address the Second Charlotte Maxeke Breakfast with Female Heads of Mission on Monday, 03 October 2022.   The purpose of the event is to elaborate on the Charlotte Maxeke African Women Economic

Media Statement   28 September 2022   Minister Pandor concludes visit to the United States   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has concluded her visit to the United States, where she:   joined President Cyril Ramaphosa’s delegation on the occasion of the bilateral engagements on 16 September 2022 with President Joe Biden headed South Africa’s delegation to the 77th Session

Media Statement   26 September 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini to travel to West Africa to hand over vaccines   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, will travel to Liberia and Sierra Leone to hand over vaccines from 26-30 September 2022.   The Government of South Africa has, through the African Renaissance Fund (ARF), signed an agreement

Media Statement   22 September 2022   Deputy Minister Botes concludes successful Working Visit to South America   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his successful Working Visit to Venezuela and Chile.   The Deputy Minister visited Caracas, Venezuela, from 14 – 18 September 2022, where he met the Deputy Minister for Europe, Mr Ivan

Statement on the virtual Cabinet Meeting of 21 September 2022   A. Issues in the environment   1. Energy   1.1. Cabinet was briefed by Public Enterprises Minister Pravin Gordhan on the capacity of Eskom to mitigate the intermittent load-shedding and also received a progress report from the Technical Committee of the National Energy Crisis Committee.   1.2. Further announcements will be made following the

Media Alert   21 September 2022   Minister Pandor to deliver SA’s statement to the UN General Assembly   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will deliver South Africa’s statement to the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA77) today, 21 September 2022.   UNGA77 is taking place at the United Nations headquarters from 20-27 September 2022 under the

Media Statement   19 September 2022   Minister Pandor arrives in New York to lead SA’s delegation to UNGA77   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has arrived in New York today, 19 September 2022, where she is leading South Africa’s delegation to the 77th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA77) taking place at the United Nations headquarters from

Media Statement   18 September 2022   Deputy Minister Botes visits Chile to strengthen bilateral relations   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has arrived in Santiago, Chile, ahead of his Working Visit scheduled for Monday, 19 September 2022.   The purpose of the visit is to review progress on bilateral relations since the Seventh Joint Consultative

Media Statement   15 September 2022   Deputy Minister Botes on an official visit to Venezuela   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has accepted an invitation by the Venezuelan Deputy Minister for Africa, Mr Yuri Alexandre Pimentel Moura, to undertake an official visit to Caracas, Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, on 15 September 2022.   Diplomatic relations

Media Statement   15 September 2022   President Ramaphosa arrives in Washington for Working Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, 15 September 2022, arrived in Washington DC, in the United States of America for a Working Visit at the invitation of President Joseph Biden.   The Working Visit is scheduled for 15-17 September 2022.   The two leaders will meet at the White House

Media Statement   14 September 2022   Minister Pandor to address the Council on Foreign Relations and hold a bilateral meeting with the Secretary of the State – Mr Antony Blinken in Washington DC   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has arrived in Washington DC, ahead of President Cyril Ramaphosa’s meeting with President Joseph Biden, which will take place on

Media Statement   12 September 2022   Deputy President Mabuza to attend the inauguration of the President-elect of Kenya   Deputy President David Mabuza has departed to Nairobi, Kenya to attend the inauguration of President-elect, HE William Samoei Ruto, taking place on 13 September 2022.   President-elect Ruto invited President Ramaphosa, who has since delegated the Deputy President to represent the Government and people of

Media Alert   11 September 2022   Minister Pandor to brief the media on President Ramaphosa’s visit to the USA   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will brief the media on Monday, 12 September 2022, on President Cyril Ramaphosa‘s upcoming visit to Washington and New York in the United States of America, where the President will hold bilateral talks with

Media Statement   08 September 2022   President Cyril Ramaphosa sends condolences to the British Royal Family   President Cyril Ramaphosa has on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, expressed his profound and sincere condolences to His Majesty, King Charles III on the passing of Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.   Her

Media Statement   1 September 2022   Message of condolences following the flash floods in the Republic of the Sudan   His Excellency Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, has expressed his sympathy to the people of the Republic of the Sudan, following the flash floods that have killed one hundred and twenty-four (124) people, destroyed ninety-eight thousand (98 000) houses, partially

Media Statement   31 August 2022   Minister Naledi Pandor attends the 48th Edition of the Intelligence on the World, Europe and Italy Forum, in Italy   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has arrived in Milan, Italy to participate in the 48th Edition of the Intelligence on the World, Europe and Italy Forum, starting on 02 – 04 September 2022.

Media Statement   30 August 2022   South Africa sends message of condolence and solidarity to Pakistan following the devastating floods experienced during the current Monsoon season   The South African Government wishes to express its condolences to the Government and people of Pakistan following the large-scale destruction and loss of thousands of lives in the wake of the recent flooding witnessed in Pakistan.  

Media Statement   28 August 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini concludes successful visit to the Middle East Region   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has concluded her successful visit to the Middle East region.   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini began her visit in Ramallah, Palestine, where she co-chaired the launch of the Strategic Dialogue with her Palestinian counterpart, Deputy Minister

Media Statement   27 August 2022   Statement on the conclusion of the 10th Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, United Nations, New York, 26 August 2022   South Africa is deeply disappointed and dismayed at yet another failed Review Conference of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). The NPT Review Conference concluded without an outcome on 26 August 2022, at the United Nations, in

Media Statement   25 August 2022   Minister Naledi Pandor to lead the South African delegation to the Eighth TICAD Summit in Tunis, Tunisia on 27 – 28 August 2022   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will lead the South African Delegation at the Eighth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) Summit, scheduled to take place from 27 –

Media Alert   24 August 2022   Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula and DIRCO lead support drive for SA re-election to ICAO Council   The Minister of Transport, Fikile Mbalula, joined by Transport Deputy Minister, Ms Sindisiwe Chikunga, and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will lead the drive to solicit support for South Africa’s re-election to the International Civil Aviation Organisation’s (ICAO) Council

Press Release   24 August 2022   Ongoing court process in respect of the decision to provide Humanitarian Assistance to Cuba through the African Renaissance and International Cooperation Fund   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has noted the Constitutional Court order, published on 23 August 2022, dismissing its application for direct access to appeal the order by the Gauteng Division of the

Joint Communiqué of the 10th IBSA Trilateral Ministerial Commission Meeting   1. The Minister of External Affairs of the Republic of India, HE Dr S. Jaishankar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Federative Republic of Brazil, HE Amb. Carlos Alberto Franco França, and the Minister of Health of the Republic of South Africa HE Dr Joe Phaahla (hereinafter referred to as “the Ministers”) met

Media Statement   19 August 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini embarks on a Working Visit to the Levant region   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, will embark on a Working Visit to the Levant region from 21-26 August 2022. The Deputy Minister will visit Palestine, Jordan, Lebanon and Syria.   The Working Visit is intended to enhance and strengthen

Media Advisory   19 August 2022   Minister Pandor to interact with Khayamandi Community on Gender-Based Violence   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will be a guest speaker at an event organised to deal with the scourge of Gender-Based Violence at Kaya Mnandi Township, in Stellenbosch on Saturday, 20 August 2022.   The event will be held under the theme:

Media Statement   16 August 2022   President Ramaphosa departs SA for DRC to participate in the 42nd Ordinary Summit of SADC   President Cyril Ramaphosa has today, Tuesday, 16 August 2022, departed South Africa for the Democratic Republic of Congo, on a Working Visit to participate in the 42nd Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government.  

Media Statement   16 August 2022   President Ramaphosa arrives in Kinshasa, DRC for the 42nd Ordinary Summit of SADC   President Cyril Ramaphosa has today Tuesday, 16 August 2022, arrived in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), on a Working Visit to participate in the 42nd Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government.   Regional leaders are

Media Statement   14 August 2022   President Ramaphosa to participate in 42nd Ordinary Summit of SADC   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 16 August 2022, undertake a Working Visit to Kinshasa in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), to participate in the 42nd Ordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government.   Regional leaders will deliberate on

Media Invite   11 August 2022   Deputy Minister Botes to address International Youth Day commemoration event in Bloemfontein   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will speak at the commemoration of International Youth Day on Friday, 12 August 2022, at the University of the Free State in Bloemfontein, Free State Province.   The United Nations (UN)

Media Alert   09 August 2022   Minister Pandor hosts her Zimbabwean counterpart   At the invitation of Dr Naledi Pandor, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa; Mr Frederick Shava, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe will pay an official visit to South Africa to co-chair the Mid-Term Review of the Bi-National Commission

Media Statement   06 August 2022   South Africa condemns Israeli attacks on Gaza   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa strongly condemns Israeli attacks on Gaza, which have over the last 48 hours resulted in the death of over 10 people, including a five-year-old child.   It is of particular grave concern that Israeli military statements indicate

Media Advisory   04 August 2022   Minister Pandor to speak at South Africa – Botswana Heritage Day Celebration event – 05 August 2022   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will speak at South Africa – Botswana Heritage Day Celebration event scheduled to take place, tomorrow, 05 August 2022 at the King Keitseng Monument, in Lobatse, Botswana.   The event

Media Alert   04 August 2022   Minister Pandor to host US Secretary of State Blinken   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is scheduled to host the Secretary of State of the United States of America, Mr Antony Blinken, on Monday, 08 August 2022, in Pretoria, on the occasion of the South Africa – United States Strategic Dialogue.   Members

Media Statement   2 August 2022   President to lead talks at High-Level South Africa – Botswana Business Roundtable   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 04 August 2022, embark on a Working Visit to the Republic of Botswana to lead talks at the High-Level South Africa – Botswana Business Roundtable.   President will travel to Gaborone at the invitation of the His Excellency, Dr

Media Statement   29 July 2022   DIRCO to host a Symposium on South Africa’s National Interest Framework Document and its advancement in a Global Environment   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), led by its Minister, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host a Symposium on South Africa’s National Interest Framework Document and its Advancement in a Global Environment on Monday, 01 August 2022, in Pretoria.

Media Statement   25 July 2022   Minister Pandor congratulates Professor Tshilidzi Marwala on his appointment as the Rector of the United Nations University   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has congratulated Professor Tshilidzi Marwala on being appointed the seventh Rector of the United Nations University in Tokyo, Japan.   The decision to appoint Professor Marwala was taken by the

Media Advisory   25 July 2022   Minister Pandor to address the Palestinian Heads of Mission in Africa Conference, Sheraton Hotel in Pretoria – 26 July 2022   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will tomorrow, at 09h00 address the Palestinian Heads of Mission in Africa Conference at the Sheraton Hotel in Pretoria.   Minister Pandor has been invited by the

Media Statement   24 July 2022   Deputy Minister Botes concludes Working Visit to Cuba   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his Working Visit to Havana, Cuba, where he co-chaired the 16th Meeting of the Joint Consultative Mechanism (JCM) with the Cuban Deputy Foreign Minister, Mr Gerardo Peñalver.   The two leaders exchanged views on matters of

Media Advisory   18 July 2022   Update on media arrangements for the SADC MCO and Extra-Ordinary Organ Troika Summit Plus the Kingdom of Eswatini   President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, will convene the SADC Extra-Ordinary Organ Troika Summit Plus the Kingdom of eSwatini, on 21 July in Pretoria.  

Media Advisory   15 July 2022   Minister Naledi Pandor to participate in Nelson Mandela Day   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will join South Africans and the international community in marking the annual Nelson Mandela International Day on Monday, 18 July 2022.   In November 2009, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared the birthday of South Africa’s first

Media Statement   15 July 2022   Deputy Minister Botes undertakes Working Visit to Cuba   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will undertake a Working Visit to the Republic of Cuba to co-chair the 16th SA – Cuba Joint Consultative Mechanism (JCM) with his Cuban counterpart, Gerardo Peñalver Portal, in Havana on 21 July 2022.   The 16th JCM

Media Statement   14 July 2022   Minister Pandor attends the 41st Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union on 14 – 15 July 2022 in Lusaka, Zambia   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has undertaken an official visit to attend the 41st Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union, scheduled to take place

Media Statement   11 July 2022   Deputy Minister Botes to host United Kingdom’s Minister of Africa   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will on Tuesday, 12 July 2022, host the United Kingdom’s Minister for Africa, Ms Vicky Ford, for Bilateral Consultations.   The purpose of the meeting is to review the progress made on the

Media Statement   10 July 2022   Minister Pandor undertakes a Working Visit to Uganda to co-chair the Second Session of the SA – Uganda JCC on 11 – 12 July 2022   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will undertake a Working Visit to Uganda to co-chair the Second Session of South Africa – Uganda Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC),

Media Statement   08 July 2022   Statement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on the passing of former Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe   I have learned with sadness and shock of the passing of former Japan Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe.   On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, I offer my sincere condolences to Mr Abe’s family, friends and colleagues, as

Media Alert   07 July 2022   South Africa to host an Extra-Ordinary Summit of the SADC Organ   The media are invited to apply for accreditation to an Extra-Ordinary Summit of the SADC Organ Troika to be held in Pretoria on Thursday, 21 July 2022.   South Africa is Chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation (Organ Troika) for the

Media Statement   06 July 2022   Minister Pandor attends G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting in Bali, Indonesia   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, arrives in Bali, Indonesia, today to attend a two-day G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting (G20 FMM), scheduled to take place from 07-08 July 2022.   To be held under the theme: “Recover Together, Recover Stronger”, the G20 Foreign

Media Statement   03 July 2022   Minister Pandor undertakes Official Visit to Singapore   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is undertaking an Official Visit to Singapore, scheduled for 05-06 July 2022, at the invitation of the Honourable Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Singapore, to discuss bilateral and multilateral cooperation issues of mutual interest.   During the visit,

Spain and South Africa Joint Communiqué on the 14th Round of Bilateral Consultations held in Madrid, Spain, 1 July 2022   On 1 July 2022 Spain hosted the 14th round of Bilateral Consultations in Madrid, welcoming the return to the in-person format that was temporarily abandoned due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The meeting was co-chaired by the Secretary of State for Foreign and Global Affairs

Media Statement   30 June 2022   South Africa calls for investigation into distressing number of deaths of African migrants attempting to cross the Morocco – Spain border   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) expresses deep regret and concern at the death of at least 23 and the injury of several migrants who attempted to cross the border from Morocco into the

Media Statement   29 June 2022   South Africa and Spain to strengthen bilateral cooperation   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will on Friday, 01 July 2022, co-chair the 14th Bilateral Consultations between South Africa and Spain with his counterpart, Ms Angeles Moreno Bau, Secretary of State for Foreign and Global Affairs in Madrid, Spain.  

Joint Communiqué of the Seventh Session of Bilateral Consultations between Portugal and South Africa   1. Portugal and South Africa concluded a Memorandum of Understanding on Bilateral Consultations on 25 November 2002, which provides for regular meetings chaired by the Ministers or Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the two countries in order to discuss Bilateral Relations, Regional and Multilateral Issues.   2. Mr Francisco André, the

Media Statement   23 June 2022   Deputy Minister Botes arrives in Portugal for Bilateral Consultations   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has today, 23 June 2022, arrived in Lisbon, Portugal, where he is scheduled to co-chair the Seventh Bilateral Consultations between South Africa and Portugal with his Portuguese counterpart, Mr Francisco André, on 24 June

Media Alert   21 July 2022   DIRCO and the Embassy of the State of Qatar to visit Limpopo as part of Mandela Month activities   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, joined by the Ambassador of the State of Qatar, HE Tariq Ali Faraj Al-Ansari, will visit the town Mookgopong in the Limpopo Province on Friday,

Media Statement   21 June 2022   Minister Naledi Pandor leads a South African delegation to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM 2022)   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will lead a South African delegation to the Commonwealth Heads of State and Government Meeting (CHOGM 2022) scheduled to be held on Friday, 24 June 2022 and Saturday, 25 June

Media Statement   20 June 2022   Deputy Minister Botes attending meeting in Vienna on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has arrived in Vienna, Austria, where he is leading a South African delegation participating in the First Meeting of States Parties to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons

Media Statement   17 June 2022   Minister Pandor concludes successful visit to the Nordic region   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has today, 17 June 2022, concluded her successful visit to the Nordic region.   Minister Pandor spent the day in Oslo, Norway, where she engaged in meetings with her Norwegian counterpart, Minister Anniken Huitfeldt, and the Minister of

Media Statement   15 June 2022   Minister Pandor arrives in Sweden after successful visit to Finland   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has today, 15 June 2022, arrived in Stockholm, Sweden, after the successful conclusion of her Working Visit to Finland. Stockholm is the second stop in Minister Pandor’s three-nation visit to the Nordic region.   The visit to

Media Statement   13 June 2022   Minister Pandor arrives in Finland for the Nordic – Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has arrived in Helsinki, Finland, where she will participate in the 19th Nordic-Africa Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.   Minister Pandor’s visit to Helsinki is at the invitation of her Finnish counterpart, Minister Pekka Haavisto.  

Media Statement   8 July 2022   President mourns passing of Former President Jose Eduardo Dos Santos   President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his deepest condolences to the people and Government of the Republic of Angola on the passing of former President José Eduardo dos Santos.   President Ramaphosa’s thoughts and prayers go out to the family, friends and comrades of the late President Dos Santos,

Media Statement   30 May 2022   South Africa and Uruguay to hold inaugural Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, and his counterpart, Ms Carolina Ache Batlle, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Oriental Republic of Uruguay, will co-chair the inaugural South African – Uruguay Political Consultations on Tuesday, 31 May 2022, in

Media Statement   24 May 2022   Minister Pandor to undertake a Working Visit to Egypt to co-chair the Ninth South Africa – Egypt Joint Commission for Cooperation on 25 May 2022   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will undertake a Working Visit to the Arab Republic of Egypt, on 25 May 2022 to co-chair the Ninth Egypt – South

Joint Statement on the 10th Session of the Deputy Ministerial Working Group between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of South Africa held in Tehran on 23 May 2022 (corresponding to 2 Khor 1401)   1. At the invitation of His Excellency, Dr Ali Bagheri Kani, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran, Her Excellency, Candith Mashego-Dlamini, the

Media Invite   22 May 2022   Investment Seminar to be held in Kimberley   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Mr. Alvin Botes, in collaboration with the Northern Cape Provincial Government, through the office of the Premier, will host a seminar in Kimberley aimed at showcasing investment opportunities in the Northern Cape Province.   Foreign diplomats affiliated to

Media Statement   22 May 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini to co-chair the 10th Session of the South Africa – Iran Deputy Ministerial Working Group   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has arrived in Tehran, Iran, to co-chair the 10th Session of the Deputy Ministerial Working Group (DMWG) on 23 May 2022 with her Iranian counterpart, Dr Ali Bagheri.

Media Statement   21 May 2022   DIRCO rejects reports of ISIS fighters returning to South Africa   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has, in recent days, noted false and irresponsible newspaper reports indicating that hundreds of former ISIS fighters have been repatriated to South Africa through a “secret operation” carried out since 2019. The reports have no factual basis.   The

Media Statement   20 May 2022   Standalone BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs / International Relations Meeting and the first BRICS Plus Foreign Ministers’ Dialogue   On 19 May 2022, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, participated in the virtual edition of the Fifth Standalone BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Relations Meeting as well as the first BRICS Plus

Media Invite   20 May 2022   Investment Seminar to be held in Kimberley   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Mr. Alvin Botes, in collaboration with the Northern Cape Provincial Government, through the office of the Premier, will host a seminar aimed at showcasing investment opportunities in the Northern Cape Province.   Foreign diplomats affiliated to the Association

Media Advisory   19 May 2022   Minister Pandor to officially hand over computers to Zinikeleni Secondary School in Carolina, Mpumalanga Province   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will officially hand over laptops to Zinikeleni Secondary School in Carolina, Mpumalanga Province. Minister Pandor will use the opportunity of her visit to the school to interact with the learners regarding the

Media Statement   17 May 2022   Economic Assistance Agreement with the Republic of Cuba   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has responded to a Parliamentary Question from the Democratic Alliance (DA) relating to the Economic Assistance Package (EAP), of R350 Million to Cuba, signed on 03 February 2012 in Pretoria.   In the said Parliamentary Answer, Minister Pandor indicated

Media Statement   17 May 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini arrives in Geneva to Co-Chair the Fourth Capital Level Meeting of the Global Network of National Focal Points of Women, Peace and Security   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has today arrived in Geneva, Switzerland, to co-chair the Global Network of Focal Points on Women, Peace and Security (WPS)

Media Advisory   16 May 2022   Minister Pandor to speak at the book launch – Beyond Fear: Reflections of a Freedom Fighter by late Former Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will speak at the launch of a book; Beyond Fear: Reflections of a Freedom Fighter, by late former Deputy Minister of International Relations and

Media Invite   16 May 2022   Minister Pandor to speak at two events in Cape Town marking the AU’s 20th anniversary   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will speak at two events in Cape Town this week marking the 20th anniversary of the launch of the African Union (AU).   The first event is a Public Lecture on 17

Media Statement   14 May 2022   President extends condolences on passing of UAE President His Royal Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan   President Cyril Ramaphosa has on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa extended his deepest condolences to the Government and people of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) following the passing away of His Royal Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin

Press Release   11 May 2022   DIRCO condemns the killing of Aljazeera journalist, Shireen Abu Akleh   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa condemns in the strongest possible terms the killing of Al Jazeera journalist, Shireen Abu Akleh, allegedly by the Israeli Defence Force on Wednesday, 11 May 2022.   Akleh was shot in the head while

Media Advisory   10 May 2022   Minister Pandor to table the Department of International and Cooperation’s (DIRCO) Budget Vote   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will virtually table her Department’s Budget Vote Speech in Parliament on Thursday, 12 May 2022, at 14h00.   Supported by Deputy Ministers, Candith Mashego-Dlamini and Alvin Botes, the Budget Vote will outline progress made

Media Advisory   25 April 2022   President Ramaphosa to host President Embaló of Guinea Bissau on State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 28 April 2022, host His Excellency General Umaro Sissoco Embaló, President of the Republic of Guinea Bissau, on a State Visit to Pretoria.   This visit by President Embaló will provide an opportunity for South Africa and Guinea Bissau

Media Statement   24 April 2022   South Africa expresses concern at developments in Jerusalem   South Africa is appalled by the increased violence and heightened tensions in Jerusalem, particularly at the Al Aqsa Mosque, and the restrictions placed on religious sites, including the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.   We strongly condemn the attacks against Palestinians, especially at a time of religious importance for

Media Statement   24 April 2022   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini arrives in India to attend the Raisina Dialogue   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, has arrived in India on an Official Visit from 24 to 27 April 2022. Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini is representing South Africa at the Raisina Dialogue, taking place in New Delhi from 25 to 27 April

Media Statement   23 April 2022   President extends condolences on passing of former President Mwai Kibaki of Kenya   President Cyril Ramaphosa has on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa extended condolences to the Government and people of the Republic of Kenya following the passing away of former Kenyan President Mwai Kibaki.   Mr Kibaki served as Kenya’s Vice President from

Joint Communiqué on the occasion of the Fifth Session of the South Africa – Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC)   1. At the invitation of His Excellency President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana, paid a Working Visit to South Africa on 22 April 2022, on the occasion of

Media Invite   20 April 2022   Minister Pandor and her counterpart to co-chair Ministerial Segment of the South Africa – Botswana BNC   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, and her counterpart from the Republic of Botswana, Minister Lemogang Kwape. will co-chair the Ministerial Segment of the Fifth South Africa – Botswana Bi-National Commission (BNC) on Thursday, 21 April 2022,

Media Statement   16 April 2022   President postpones Saudi Arabia visit to focus on Kwazulu-Natal disaster   President Cyril Ramaphosa has postponed a working visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to focus on government’s intervention in the KwaZulu-Natal flood disaster.   The South African Government has communicated the postponement of the visit, for which President Ramaphosa was due to travel on Tuesday, 19

Media Advisory   09 April 2022   Minister Pandor to deliver a keynote address at the Gala Dinner function hosted by the Charlotte Mannya-Maxeke Institute to honour DIRCO’s role in preserving Mama Charlotte Maxeke’s legacy   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will, this evening, deliver a keynote address at the Gala Dinner function, hosted by the Charlotte Mannyi-Maxeke Institute in

Media Invite   07 April 2022   Media Briefing on ongoing Ukraine / Russia Conflict   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, joined by the Director-General, Mr Zane Dangor; Permanent Representatives of South Africa to the United Nations (UN), Ambassadors Mathu Joyini (New York) and Mxolisi Nkosi (Geneva), will tomorrow at 10h00 brief the media on the developments regarding the on-going

Media Advisory   06 April 2022   President Ramaphosa to address Diplomatic Heads of Mission Conference   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Thursday, 07 April 2022, address the opening session of the 2022 Heads of Mission Conference (HoMC22), which is a platform for strategic discussion among South Africa’s internationally deployed senior diplomats.   The conference will take place at the Department of International Relations and

Media Alert   02 April 2022   SADC Troika Ministerial Meeting to take place on Sunday, 03 April   Members of the media who have applied for accreditation are invited to the opening of the Ministerial Meeting of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, scheduled for Sunday, 03 April 2022.   It is expected that Minister Naledi Pandor and the SADC Executive

Media Statement   01 April 2022   Minister Pandor wishes Mr Dangor well as the new DG of DIRCO   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has congratulated Mr Zane Dangor on being appointed the Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).   Mr Dangor takes up the position of Director-General today, 01 April 2022.   Mr Dangor

Media Advisory   31 March 2022   Update on media arrangements for the SADC Organ Troika Plus the Republic of Mozambique and the Kingdom of eSwatini   As Chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, South Africa will convene the Ministerial Meeting of the SADC Organ Troika Plus the Republic of Mozambique and the Kingdom of eSwatini on Sunday, 03 April 2022, in

Explanation of Vote on the humanitarian resolution in Ukraine on the occasion of the Emergency Special Session of the General Assembly on 24 March 2022   South Africa is deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine and its neighbouring countries. It is vital that the United Nations General Assembly adopts a resolution responding to this humanitarian crisis and affirm the international humanitarian principles that

Media Statement   24 March 2022   South Africa calls for humanitarian assistance in Ukraine and dialogue, mediation and diplomacy to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict in the UN General Assembly   Today, the United Nations General Assembly considered resolutions on the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine.   South Africa’s approach has been that in the current context of the conflict in Ukraine, it is necessary for

Media Statement   23 March 2022   Minister Pandor on the Court Ruling regarding the South African Humanitarian Aid to Cuba   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor has, this morning, reacted to the Court Ruling yesterday regarding South Africa’s humanitarian aid to Cuba as follows:   “The Ministry as well as the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, have noted

Media Invite   22 March 2022   South Africa to host SADC Extra-Ordinary Organ Troika Summit   The media are invited to apply for accreditation to the SADC Extra-Ordinary Organ Troika Summit plus the Republic of Mozambique, the Kingdom of eSwatini and Personnel Contributing Countries, to be held from 04-05 April 2022 in Pretoria.   It is expected that the Extra-Ordinary Organ Troika Summit will

Media Statement   16 March 2022   South Africa Chairs the 66th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women   South Africa has assumed responsibility as the Chair of the 66th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW66) that is taking place at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters in New York, from 14 – 25 March 2022.   The South

Media Statement   14 March 2022   South Africa observes Commonwealth Day   South Africa joins the other Commonwealth member states in marking Commonwealth Day today 14 March 2022, under the theme: “Delivering a Common Future: Connecting, Innovating, Transforming.”   The Commonwealth, which represents 54 countries on six different continents, are joined in pursuing their common goals to promote a fairer, prosperous, sustainable, and secure

Media Statement   13 March 2022   Deputy Minister Botes concludes Working Visit to Norway and Sweden   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his Working Visit to Norway and Sweden, which took place from 07 – 11 March 2022.   In Norway, the Deputy Minister participated in a political consultation with the country’s State Secretary for Foreign

Media Statement   13 March 2022   South Africa and Nepal sign new agreement   The Acting Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Ambassador Nonceba Losi, and the Foreign Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Nepal, Mr Bharat Raj Paudyal, signed a Declaration of Intent on Cooperation between the Republic of South Africa and Nepal on Thursday, 10 March 2022

Media Advisory   12 March 2022   Minister Pandor to participate in the panel discussion “Revitalising Multilateralism: The United Nations and Beyond” in Turkey   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor arrived in Antalya, Turkey, this morning (12 March 2022) to participate in the panel discussion organised by the Antalya Diplomacy Forum.   The panel discussion, entitled “Revitalising Multilateralism: The United

Media Statement   08 March 2022   Deputy Minister Botes arrives in Sweden for Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has arrived in Stockholm, Sweden, at the invitation of the Swedish State Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ms Karin Wallensteen.   Bilateral relations between South Africa and Sweden continue to expand and intensify, and the

Media Statement   07 March 2022   Deputy Minister Botes arrives in Norway for Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has arrived in Oslo, Norway, at the invitation of the Norwegian State Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mr Henrik Thune.   The two delegations will take part in Political Consultations aimed at strengthening cooperation between South Africa and

Media Statement   2 March 2022   South Africa’s statement in explanation of vote on Ukraine in the UN General Assembly Emergency Special Session, 2 March 2022   South Africa has voted to abstain.   Our position as expressed during the discussions of the Emergency Special Session over the last few days, is that South Africa remains deeply concerned by the escalation of the conflict

Media Advisory   27 February 2022   Minister Pandor to participate in the High-Level Segment of the 49th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will participate in the High-Level Segment of the 49th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, from 28 February to 2

Media Statement   24 February 2022   South African Government calls for a peaceful resolution of the escalating conflict between the Russian Federation and Ukraine   The Republic of South Africa is dismayed at the escalation of the conflict in Ukraine. We regret that the situation has deteriorated despite calls for diplomacy to prevail.   Armed conflict will no doubt result in human suffering and

Media Statement   23 February 2022   South African Government is concerned about the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine   The South African Government is concerned about the ongoing tensions at the Ukraine and Russia border, a situation if allowed to further deteriorate, could have regional and global ramifications.   South Africa urges all parties to devote increased efforts to diplomacy and to find a

Joint Communiqué: South Africa – Ireland Second Joint Commission for Cooperation, Pretoria, 22 February 2022   South Africa hosted a successful second South Africa–Ireland Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) on 22 February 2022. The meeting was co-chaired by the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Alvin Botes, and the Minister of State for Overseas Development and Diaspora

Media Invite   20 February 2022   Deputy Minister Botes to host his Irish Counterpart for a Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC)   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will host the Irish Minister of State for Overseas Development Aid and Diaspora of Ireland, Mr Colm Brophy, for the Second South Africa – Ireland Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) on

Media Advisory   17 February 2022   Minister Pandor to participate in the 58th Edition of the Munich Security Conference   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will participate in the 58th Edition of the Munich Security Conference (MSC), in Germany, from 18 to 20 February 2022.   The MSC is an annual conference on international security that has taken place

Media Statement   09 February 2022   DIRCO’s electricity account is up-to-date   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) has noted with concern the media reports that it, together with Foreign Missions in South Africa and other government departments owe the City of Tshwane billions of rands due to unpaid electricity accounts.   This is despite several attempts by DIRCO to reach out

Media Statement   03 February 2022   South Africa calls for cessation of violence and restoration of peace and rule of law in Myanmar   The Government of the Republic of South Africa has noted with concern the slower than desired, pace towards the restoration of normalcy in Myanmar.   A year later, the status quo remains that Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and other

Media Statement   03 February 2022   South Africa condemns the attempted coup d’état in Guinea-Bissau   The Government of South Africa condemns the attempted coup d’état and acts of violence in Guinea-Bissau that took place on 01 February 2022. South Africa supports the African Union and the Economic Community for West African States (ECOWAS) in condemning these acts.   We are pleased that the

Media Statement   2 February 2022   President Ramaphosa undertakes working visit to Mozambique   President Cyril Ramaphosa, will undertake a Working Visit to the Republic of Mozambique on Thursday, 03 February 2022, at the invitation of President Filipe Nyusi, President of the Republic of Mozambique.   President Ramaphosa will participate in the 53rd Commemoration of the assassination of Dr Eduardo Mondlane, the founder and

Media Statement   31 January 2022   Minister Pandor to participate in the 40th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will participate in the 40th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The meeting is scheduled for 02 – 03 February 2022.   Among other things,

Media Release   30 January 2022   Nominations are open for the Ubuntu Awards 2022   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will host the annual Ubuntu Awards on Saturday, 12 February 2022, in Cape Town. The event will be held under the theme: “Celebrating Excellence in Diplomacy – Working together to build a better Africa and a Better world”.   Now in

Media Statement   27 January 2022   South Africa has maintained a consistent position on the Israel – Palestine question   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has noted comments and questions regarding the status of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Israel. The debate appears to have been triggered by the acceptance of a letter of Credence of the new Israeli Ambassador to

Media Invite   08 March 2022   Opening of the Ministerial Segment of the South Africa – Mozambique BNC   The media are invited to the opening of the Ministerial Segment of the South Africa-Mozambique Bi-National Commission (BNC), scheduled for 10 March 2022, in Pretoria.   Minister Naledi Pandor and her Mozambican counterpart, Minister Verónica Macamo Dhlovo, will co-chair the session.   The details are as

Media Statement   25 January 2022   South Africa condemns the coup d’état in Burkina Faso   The Government of South Africa condemns the coup d’état in Burkina Faso and calls on the military to return to their barracks and restore democracy.   The South African Government agrees with the views of the Economic Community for West African States (ECOWAS) that soldiers should return to

Media Statement   18 January 2022   South Africa condemns attacks directed at targets in the United Arab Emirates   The South African Government has noted, with concern, the escalation of tensions in the Gulf Region.   The drone attacks on Monday, 17 January 2022, directed at the industrial area of Musaffah near Abu Dhabi International Airport in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), resulted in

Media Statement   17 December 2021   Joint Statement by South African Government and the African Vaccination Acquisition Trust   The South African Government has, through the African Renaissance Fund (ARF), signed an agreement with the African Vaccination Acquisition Trust (AVAT) to donate 2 030 400 doses of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccines to African countries.   The value of the donation is R288,6

Media Statement   17 December 2021   The Netherlands donates €750,000 to the Solidarity Fund   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has, on behalf of the Government of the Republic of South Africa, welcomed a decision by the Government of the Netherlands to donate a sum of €750,000 (R14 million) to the Solidarity Fund.   Minister Pandor and the Minister

Media Advisory   16 December 2021   Minister Pandor to participate in a Virtual Dialogue: How to End Vaccine Apartheid   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will, this evening, 16 December 2021 at 18h00, participate in Virtual Dialogue, How to End Vaccine Apartheid, organised by the Foreign Policy Magazine in partnership with Brand South Africa.   According to the organisers, the

Media Alert   13 December 2021   Minister Pandor to address end-of-year Media Briefing   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will address DIRCO’s end-of-year Media Briefing on Tuesday, 14 December 2021.   It is expected that Minister Pandor will reflect on some the year’s foreign policy highlights. These include matters relating to the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the broader

Media Statement   08 December 2021   Minister Pandor sends condolences following the passing on of Ambassador Mabuza   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has sent a message of condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Ambassador Lindiwe Mabuza, who passed away on 06 December 2021.   Ambassador Mabuza was born in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal, in 1938.   Mabuza joined

Media Statement   07 December 2021   Minister Naledi Pandor’s message of condolences to Dr Ebrahim Ebrahim family   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has learnt with sadness the news of the passing of Dr Ebrahim Ebrahim, the former Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (2009 – 2014).   On behalf of herself and the Department of International Relations

Press Release   29 November 2021   Statement by the Government of the Republic of South Africa on the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People   The South African Government joins the international community in commemorating the 44th 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

Media Statement   29 November 2021   South Africa welcomes Indian Cricket Teams   The South African Government wishes to welcome the Indian ‘A’ Cricket Team that is currently in South Africa to play three unofficial test matches against the South African ‘A’ Team.   The Indian ‘A’ Team is based in Bloemfontein and will start the second match of the tour today, 29 November

Media Statement   28 November 2021   Deputy Minister Botes concludes Working Visit to Denmark and Finland   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has returned to South Africa after a successful Working Visit to Denmark and Finland from 22 – 25 November 2021.   The purpose of the visit was to:   strengthen and expand bilateral

Media Statement   27 November 2021   Deputy Minister Mashego-Dlamini to attend China – Africa Ministerial Conference in Senegal   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, will participate in the Eighth Ministerial Conference of the Forum on China – Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Dakar, Senegal, from 29 to 30 November 2021.   The conference will be held under theme: “Deepening

Media Statement   27 November 2021   South Africa’s response to travel restrictions imposed by several countries   The South African Government has noted the announcements by several countries to institute temporary travel restrictions on South Africa and other countries in our region.   This follows the detection of the new Omicron variant.   South Africa aligns itself with the World Health Organisation’s position on

Media Statement   26 November 2021   South Africa responds to UK’s temporary ban of Southern African flights from entering the UK   The Government of South Africa has noted the announcement by the United Kingdom (UK) to temporarily ban all flights from the Southern parts of Africa, including South Africa from entering the UK due to the detection of a new coronavirus variant B.1.1.529.

Joint Communiqué on the occasion of the State Visit of HE Uhuru Kenyatta, President of the Republic of Kenya, to South Africa, from 22nd-24th November, 2021   1. At the invitation of HE Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa, the President of the Republic of South Africa, HE Uhuru Kenyatta, President of the Republic of Kenya, paid a State Visit to the Republic of South Africa from 22nd

Media Statement   24 November 2021   SADC Extraordinary Meeting of the Ministerial Committee of the Organ Troika Plus Personnel Contributing Countries, and the Republic of Mozambique   Minister Naledi Pandor in her capacity as the Chair of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Ministerial Committee of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security will host the SADC Extraordinary Ministerial Committee of the Organ Troika

Media Statement   21 November 2021   Deputy Minister Botes to undertake a Working Visit to Denmark and Finland for Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will undertake a Working Visit to Denmark and Finland for Bilateral Political Consultations. The visit is scheduled for 22-25 November 2021.   The Danish State Secretary for Development Policy, Ms Lotte

Media Statement   20 November 2021   Minister Pandor concludes visit to Belgium, proceeds to the Netherlands   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has concluded her successful visit to the Kingdom of Belgium, where she held a series of meetings aimed at strengthening cooperation between South Africa and Belgium and between South Africa and the European Union (EU). Minister Pandor

Media Statement   20 November 2021   President Ramaphosa to host President Kenyatta of the Republic of Kenya on State Visit   President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 23 November 2021, host His Excellency President Uhuru Kenyatta of the Republic of Kenya on a State Visit at the Union Buildings in Tshwane.   President Kenyatta will undertake the State Visit from 22 to 24 November

Media Statement   19 November 2021   Minister Pandor arrives in Brussels for SA – Belgium, SA – EU Meeting   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has this morning, 19 November 2021, arrived in Brussels, Kingdom of Belgium, where she will hold meetings aimed at strengthening cooperation between South Africa and Belgium and between South Africa and the European Union

Media Statement   16 November 2021   Minister Pandor attends the 21st IORA Council of Minister’s Meeting   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, arrived, this afternoon, in Dhaka, Bangladesh, to attend the 21st Meeting of the Indian Ocean Rim Association’s (IORA) Council of Ministers (COM) scheduled to take place on 17 November 2021.   This will be the last meeting

Media Statement   14 November 2021   South African Government withdraws support for Miss SA Pageant   The South African Government withdraws its support and that of South Africa for the Miss South Africa pageant following the latter’s intransigence and disregard of advice against partaking in the Miss Universe pageant scheduled to be held in Israel during the month of December 2021.   Following unsuccessful

Media Statement   14 November 2021   South Africa welcomes the outcomes of the UNFCCC’s COP26/CMP16/CMA3   South Africa welcomes the outcomes of the recently concluded Glasgow Climate Conference (COP26/CMP16/CMA3), which provide Parties with a firm basis for the full and effective implementation of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change and its Paris Agreement.   The international community has united behind a shared

Media Statement   12 November 2021   Minister Pandor visits the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria and the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will visit the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria and the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic from 13 to 14 November 2021.   The visits are aimed at deepening and strengthening the already existing

Media Statement   29 October 2021   South African Government Denounces Decision by Israel to designate and brand six Palestinian civil society organisations without justification as terrorist organisations   The South African Government strongly objects to Israel’s unjust and without justification the designation and branding of six civil society organisations as terrorist groups.   The six civil society organisations that have been branded terrorist organisations by the

Media Statement   28 October 2021   Minister Pandor to lead South Africa’s delegation at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rome   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will lead the South African delegation and participate in the G20 Leaders’ Summit, scheduled for 30-31 October 2021 in Rome, Italy.   As the current President of the G20, Italy will convene the

Media Statement   25 October 2021   South Africa concerned about developments in Sudan   South Africa is deeply concerned about the apparent ongoing coup and attempts to undermine Sudan’s political transition.   We reject and condemn any attempt at an unconstitutional change of government.   South Africa calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the Prime Minister, government officials and other politicians detained

Media Statement   24 October 2021   Message by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, on the occasion of United Nations Day, Sunday, 24 October 2021   The Government and people of South Africa join the international community in celebrating the 76th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations (UN).   UN Day marks the entry into force of the

Media Statement   24 October 2021   Minister Pandor to participate in the Second African Union (AU) – European Union (EU) Ministerial Meeting in Kigali, Rwanda   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is scheduled to arrive in Kigali. Rwanda, tomorrow morning to participate in the Second African Union (AU) – European Union (EU) Ministerial Meeting, taking place on 25 and

Media Statement   22 October 2021   Minister Pandor concludes successful visit to Abidjan   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has concluded her successful visit to Abidjan, where she led a South African delegation at the inaugural Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) between the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire and the Republic of South Africa.   Minister Pandor co-chaired the JCC,

Media Statement   19 October 2021   Minister Pandor leads South Africa’s delegation at the Côte d’Ivoire – South Africa JCC   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is expected to arrive in Abidjan today, 19 October 2021, where she will lead a South African delegation at the inaugural session of the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) between the Republic of

Media Statement   16 October 2021   Deputy Minister Botes concludes his Working Visit to Serbia and Bulgaria   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his Working Visit to Serbia and Bulgaria, where took part in the High-Level Commemorative Meeting to mark the 60th anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the Bilateral Political Consultation, respectively.   The

Media Statement   10 October 2021   Deputy Minister Botes to visit Serbia and Bulgaria   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, is scheduled to visit Serbia and Bulgaria from 11 – 15 October 2021.   In Serbia, Deputy Minister Botes will participate in the High-level Commemorative Meeting to mark the 60th anniversary of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) on 11-12

Media Statement   07 October 2021   South Africa and the Netherlands pleased with the success of the virtual Global Cyber Policy Dialogue   South Africa and the Netherlands, in partnership with the Observer Research Foundation America and Research ICT Africa, co-hosted a successful virtual Global Cyber Policy Dialogue for Southern Africa on Wednesday, 06 October 2021. The aim of this meeting was to follow

Media Advisory   07 October 2021   Minister Pandor to deliver a keynote address at the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipation Summit   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will deliver a keynote address during the Opening Ceremony of the Geneva Science and Diplomacy Anticipation (GESDA) Summit, scheduled to start at 15h00, today, 07 October 2021.   GESDA is a Swiss

Media Statement   07 October 2021   Minister Pandor to host HE Dr Riad Malki, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State of Palestine to the Republic of South Africa on an Official Visit from 7 to 9 October 2021   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates of the State

Media Statement   06 October 2021   Meeting between HE Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation and HE Dr Ahmed Hassen Al-Hammadi, Secretary-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, HE Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, will host her Qatari Counterpart, HE Dr Ahmed Hassen

Media Statement   05 October 2021   Minister Pandor to lead a South African delegation during an Extra-Ordinary virtual SADC Council of Ministers, 6 October 2021   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will lead the South African delegation during an Extra-Ordinary virtual SADC Council of Ministers’ Meeting, scheduled to take place tomorrow, Wednesday, 06 October 2021.   The meeting will discuss specific

Media Statement   04 October 2021   DIRCO ends employment relationship with Chief Financial Officer   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has terminated its employment relationship with Chief Financial Officer, Mr Caiphus Ramashau.   This follows the conclusion of the disciplinary case instituted against him. Mr Ramashau faced charges related to irregular expenditure incurred by the department on an unsuccessful project to purchase

Media Statement   28 September 2021   South Africa and the United Kingdom co-hosted the Inaugural SA – UK Dialogue   On 28 September 2021 the Republic of South Africa and the United Kingdom held the first ever ICT Cyber Dialogue. The two sides exchanged views on the cyber threat landscape including cybercrime, the future of UN cyber processes relating to responsible state behaviour in

Media Statement   27 September 2021   South Africa and United Kingdom to co-host Cyber Dialogue   The Republic of South Africa and the United Kingdom will co-host the inaugural Information Communication Technology (ICT) Cyber Dialogue on Tuesday, 28 September 2021.   The establishment of this Dialogue arises from the meeting held at DIRCO in January 2020, where a number of areas of particular interest

Media Statement   25 September 2021   Minister Pandor concludes visit to the UN General Assembly   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, concluded her visit to New York on Friday, 24 September 2021, where she participated in person at the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA76) held under the theme: “Building resilience through hope – to recover

Media Statement   20 September 2021   Minister Pandor arrives in New York for the UN General Assembly   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has today, Monday, 20 September 2021, arrived in New York, where she will be participating in the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA76).   This year’s UN General Assembly is scheduled for 20-28

Media Statement   19 September 2021   South Africa to intensify efforts to get off the UK’s Red List   The Government of South Africa is puzzled at the United Kingdom’s (UK) decision to keep South Africa on the Red List of countries facing stringent restrictions and high costs when entering the UK.   Thousands of families and business people in South Africa and the

Media Statement   18 September 2021   South Africa’s message of condolences to the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria on the passing of former President Abdelaziz Bouteflika   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa expressed her deepest condolences to the Government and people of the People’s Democratic Republic of Algeria

Media Statement   10 September 2021   DIRCO parts ways with Director-General   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has terminated its employment relationship with Director-General, Mr Kgabo Mahoai. This follows the conclusion of the disciplinary case instituted against him.   Mr Mahoai faced charges related to irregular expenditure incurred by the Department on an unsuccessful project to purchase a piece of land in

Media Advisory   10 September 2021   Minister Pandor to officially hand over the newly renovated Science Lab and the library to Siqongweni High School at Imbali Township, Pietermaritzburg – 11 September 2021 at 09h00   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will officially hand over a newly refurbished Science Laboratory and the library to Siqongweni High School at Imbali Township

Media Alert   09 September 2021   DIRCO and the Embassy of Vietnam to hand over masks to the Northern Cape Department of Education   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, and the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in Pretoria, HE Huang Van Loi, will donate masks to the Department of Education in the Northern Cape Province, for

Media Advisory   08 September 2021   Minister Pandor to officially hand over the newly renovated Science Lab and the library to Siqongweni High School at Imbali Township, Pietermaritzburg – 11 September 2021 at 09h00   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will officially hand over a newly refurbished Science Laboratory and the library to Siqongweni High School at Imbali Township

Media Statement   06 September 2021   Ongoing political and security situation in the Republic of Guinea   The South African Government notes with great concern the ongoing political and security situation in the Republic of Guinea following the apparent coup d’état that took place on 5 September 2021.   We call for the immediate release of Prof. Alpha Condé, President of the Republic of

Media Statement   06 September 2021   Minister Pandor conveys her condolences to Ms Zanele Magwaza-Msibi’s family   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has conveyed her heartfelt condolences to Ms Zanele Magwaza-Msibi’s family, friends and colleagues, following the announcement of her passing this morning.   Minister Pandor said Ms Magwaza-Msibi played an important role in assisting her to steer the

Media Statement   04 September 2021   Deputy Minister Alvin Botes concludes visits to Poland and Romania   The Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his Working visit to Poland and Romania for Political Consultations with the Polish Undersecretary of state in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Mr Pawel Jablonski and the Romanian State Secretary, Mr

Speaking Notes for Dr Naledi Pandor, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, at the Gertrude Shope Annual Dialogue Forum, 3 September 2021   Progamme Director: Ambassador Mxakatho Diseko, HE Mr Audun Halvorsen, Honourable Deputy Minister Ms Candith Mashego-Dlamini, HE, Madame Benita Diop, Mme Gertrude Shope, Acting Director-General of the Department, All panellists joining, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,   Let me begin by being really

Media Statement   2 September 2021   Update on Afghanistan   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has confirmed that there is only one (1) registered South African national remaining in Kabul. Thirty-five (35) South African nationals have been assisted to leave Kabul on various evacuation flights.   The one remaining South African is working in Kabul and will remain there for the foreseeable

Media Statement   1 September 2021   South Africa is unable to receive Afghan refugees   The South African Government notes the overtures made to the country to consider receiving a number of Afghanistan refugees who have sought refuge in Pakistan.   The request is that they be accommodated in South Africa en-route to their final destinations.   The South African Government is unfortunately not

Media Release   31 August 2021   Minister Pandor to participate in a panel discussion on the protection of women in conflict-affected environments   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will, this afternoon, 31 August 2021 at 15h00, participate in a virtual event themed “Ensuring Protection for Full and Equal Participation in Peacebuilding and Political Spaces,” hosted in partnership with the

Media Statement   30 August 2021   Deputy Minister Botes visits Poland and Romania for Bilateral Political Consultations   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will visit Poland and Romania from 31 August 2021 to 02 September 2021, where he will co-chair Bilateral Political Consultations with the Polish Head of Foreign Service, Dr Arkady Rzegocki, and the Romanian State Secretary,

Media Statement   30 August 2021   Minister Pandor to be a Keynote Speaker at the Opening Session of the Eighth Edition of the “AAAS-TWAS Summer Course on Science and Diplomacy   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will this afternoon, 30 August 2021 at 14h00, be a keynote speaker during the Opening Session of the Eighth Edition of the American

Media Statement   23 August 2021   Minister Pandor to host the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Dr AK Abdul Momen, during an Official Visit to South Africa from 22 – 25 August 2021   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will host the Foreign Minister of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, Dr AK Abdul Momen,

Media Statement   19 August 2021   Minister Pandor to be a guest speaker at Stellenbosch University Women Alumnae Network   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will be a guest speaker at the Stellenbosch University Women Alumnae Network (SWAN) to be held virtually, tomorrow, Friday, 20 August 2021, at 13h00 – 14h00.   The theme of the event is “Women

Media Statement   19 August 2021   President Ramaphosa in discussion with President-Elect Hakainde Hichilema of the Republic of Zambia   President Cyril Ramaphosa placed a call yesterday, Wednesday 18 August 2021, to Zambian President-Elect, Hakainde Hichilema, to wish the incoming leader and the Government and people of the Republic of Zambia well for the Presidential term.   President Ramaphosa congratulated President-Elect Hichilema on his

Media Statement   17 August 2021   South African Government reaction to the unfolding situation in Afghanistan   The South African Government has taken note of the unfolding situation in Afghanistan and is particularly concerned by the plight of thousands of displaced Afghani’s seeking safety and security amid the deepening crisis in Afghanistan.   The South African Government calls on the authority in power to

Joint Communiqué issued by Amb. Raychelle Omamo and Dr Naledi Pandor at the Inaugural Session of the Kenya – South Africa Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC), held on 11th August, 2021   1. The Inaugural Session of the Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) between the Governments of the Republics of Kenya and South Africa was held on 11th August, 2021 in Nairobi, Kenya.   2.

Media Statement   10 August 2021   Minister Pandor travels to Kenya to inaugurate the South Africa – Kenya Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC)   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will represent South Africa at the First Session of the South Africa – Kenya Joint Commission of Cooperation (JCC), scheduled to take on 10 – 11 August 2021 in Nairobi,

Media Statement   28 July 2021   South Africa objects to the African Union Commission Decision to grant Israel Observer Status   The Government of South Africa is appalled at the unjust and unwarranted decision of the AU Commission to grant Israel observer status in the African Union.   The African Union Commission has taken this decision unilaterally without consultations with its members. The decision

Media Statement   21 July 2021   Deputy Minister Botes to chair the Seventh Meeting of the South Africa – Chile Joint Consultative Mechanism on 22 July 2021   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, will hold the Seventh South Africa – Chile Joint Consultative Mechanism Meeting with Ms Carolina Valdivia, Under-Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Chile,

Media Statement   20 July 2021   Minister Pandor leads the South African delegation at the 16th South Africa – Russian Federation Session of the Intergovernmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation (ITEC)   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor will lead the South African delegation and Co-Chair the Ministerial Segment of the 16th South Africa – Russia Federation Session of

Media Statement   20 July 2021   Minister Pandor to deliver the Keynote Address at the Annual Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on the occasion of the Nelson Mandela International Day   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will deliver a pre-recorded Keynote Address at the Annual Meeting of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly on the occasion of

Media Release   14 July 2021   Minister Pandor travels to Windhoek, Namibia for Diplomatic and Political Consultations   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is travelling to Namibia, today, 14 July 2021, to have Diplomatic and Political Consultations with her counterpart, HE Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, the Namibian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation.   Amongst other

Media Statement   07 July 2021   Minister Pandor leads South African delegation at the Meeting of the SADC Ministerial Committee of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is today, 07 July 2021, leading a South African Government delegation at the virtual Meeting of the SADC Ministerial Committee of the Organ (MCO)

Media Statement   01 July 2021   Ongoing political and security situation in the Kingdom of eSwatini   The South African Government notes with great concern the ongoing political and security situation in the Kingdom of eSwatini.   We are particularly concerned by reports of loss of life and destruction of properties.   The right to peaceful protest is universally recognised.   The South African

Media Statement   01 July 2021   Deputy Minister Botes holds Political Consultations with the Deputy Foreign Minister of the Czech Republic   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, held Political Consultations with the Deputy Foreign Minister for non-European Countries and Economic Diplomacy of the Czech Republic, Mr Martin Tlapa.   The Political Consultations took place as countries across the

Media Statement   29 June 2021   South Africa reiterates its support for multilateral efforts aimed at tackling global challenges   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, said today, 29 June 2021, at meetings of the G20 taking place in Matera, Italy, that South Africa supports international efforts to tackle the health and socio-economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.   The

Matera Declaration on Food Security, Nutrition and Food Systems. A Call to Action in the time of the COVID–19 pandemic and beyond   1. We, the G20 Foreign Affairs and Development Ministers, UN agencies and other partners convened here in Matera to contribute to strengthening international efforts to contain the effects of the pandemic on lives and livelihoods and to build forward better. We express

Media Statement   28 June 2021   Minister Pandor arrives in Italy for G20 Ministers’ Meetings   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has today, 28 June 2021, arrived in Matera, Italy, where she is representing South Africa in a number of meetings of the G20 Ministers.   Italy assumed the Presidency of the G20 in December 2020.   The G20

Media Statement   27 June 2021   Minister Pandor travels to Italy to represent South Africa in the G20 Ministers’ Meetings   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, is scheduled to travel to Italy, where she will represent South Africa in a number of meetings of the G20 Foreign Ministers. The meetings will take place from 28-29 June 2021 in the

Media Statement   24 June 2021   South Africa contacts French authorities following the ill treatment of opera star Pretty Yende   The South African Government has noted with concern the manner in which acclaimed international opera singer, Pretty Yende, was treated at the Charles De Gaulle International Airport in Paris, France, on Monday, 21 June 2021.   The South African Embassy in Paris has

Media Statement   23 June 2021   Deputy Minister Botes concludes Working Visit to Turkey   The Deputy of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, has concluded his Working Visit to Turkey, where he attended the inaugural Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) from 18 – 20 June 2021.   Deputy Minister Botes says the ADF presented an excellent platform for regional and global actors from

Media Statement   17 June 2021   Deputy Minister Botes undertakes Working Visit to Turkey   The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Alvin Botes, is scheduled to undertake a Working Visit to Turkey, where he will take part in the inaugural Antalya Diplomatic Forum (ADF) from 18 – 20 June 2021.   The event, which is being held under the auspices of

Media Statement   15 June 2021   Minister Pandor to lead a South African delegation to a SADC-EU Ministerial Political Dialogue on 16 June 2021   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will participate in the virtual Southern African Development Community (SADC)-European Union (EU) Ministerial Political Dialogue on 16 June 2021.   The SADC-EU Political Dialogue was launched at the SADC-EU

Media Statement   12 July 2021   Minister Pandor mourns the passing of Dr Ben Ngubane   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, has conveyed her heartfelt condolences to Dr Ben Ngubane family, friends and colleagues, following the announcement of his untimely passing, this morning.   Minister Pandor said Dr Ngubane played a pivotal role in the construction of South Africa’s

Media Statement   11 June 2021   South Africa sends condolences to Pakistan following a train crash in the Sindh province   The South African Government has learnt with sadness of the Pakistani train collision in a remote part of southern Sindh province which occurred on Monday, 07 June 2021, and caused the tragic loss of least 63 people.   The South African Government extends

Press Release   11 June 2021   South Africa declares diplomats persona non grata for abusing diplomatic privileges   The Department of International Relations and Cooperation wishes to confirm that it has, on behalf of the Republic of South Africa, declared several diplomats persona non grata following an intensive investigation into their flouting of diplomatic privileges.   The said diplomats were found guilty of engaging

Media Statement   4 June 2021   Joint Statement at the conclusion of the Working Visit to South Africa by Dr Vincent Biruta, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of the Republic of Rwanda, 04 June 2021   PRETORIA – The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, hosted her Rwandan counterpart, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Dr Vincent Biruta,

Media Release   03 June 2021   South Africa and Cuba commemorates 27 years of diplomatic relations based on solidarity and cooperation   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, and her Cuban counterpart, HE Mr Bruno Rodriquez Parrilla, virtually commemorated the 27 years of formal diplomatic relations between their two countries.   The two Ministers spoke through a video call at

Media Statement   02 June 2021   Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs / International Relations   1. The Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs/International Relations under India’s Chairmanship was held on 1 June 2021 in virtual format.   2. The Ministers reviewed progress in intra-BRICS cooperation and collaboration and exchanged views on major international and regional issues in the political,

BRICS Joint Statement on Strengthening and Reforming the Multilateral System   1. The Ministers of Foreign Affairs/International Relations 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 on 1 June 2021 in via Video Conferencing. On the landmark occasion of the 15th anniversary of BRICS, the Ministers espoused their

Media Statement   31 May 2021   Minister Pandor to participate in a virtual Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs / International Relations   The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr Naledi Pandor, will participate in a virtual Meeting of the Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa (BRICS) Ministers of Foreign Affairs / International Relations, scheduled to take place on Tuesday,

Media Statement   30 May 2021   South Africa welcomes the adoption of the United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution on Ensuring respect for international human rights law and international humanitarian law in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and in Israel   The Government of the Republic of South Africa welcomes the adoption of the United Nations Human Rights Council Resolution on Ensuring