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 of Palestine, Dr Riad Malki, during an official visit to South Africa from 7 – 9 October 2021.
On Friday, 08 October 2021 at 11h00, the two Ministers will hold bilateral talks at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). See the address below.
Media are invited for the opening and closing remarks of the Ministers.
South Africa attaches great importance to its relationship with Palestine, which is underpinned by historic bonds of solidarity, friendship and cooperation. South Africa’s support for the Palestinian cause conforms with the basic tenets of its foreign policy.
The visit takes place as the Palestinian people continue to be subjected to countless injustices and an ongoing cycle of destruction, displacement, and dispossession, as well as the progressive fragmentation of its territory.
The international community has an obligation to find a comprehensive and just resolution to the Palestinian issue. South Africa calls for international support and increased efforts for the just cause of the Palestinian people to address their legitimate demand for an independent state alongside a peaceful state of Israel.
The visit aims at further strengthening the relationship between South Africa and Palestine- to provide political support, enhance coordination and cooperation and maintain high-level exchanges, to advance bilateral cooperation in the identified areas.
South Africa stands ready to work more closely with Palestine and the meeting will endorse the strong solidarity of both countries and their belief in multilateralism and the centrality of the United Nations, including the Security Council, as essential in promoting effective and inclusive international cooperation in resolving a variety of current global challenges, including the peaceful settlement of conflicts.
Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5974
ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
0084