Iss
ue
No
. 8
Issue 7, 27 September 2018
EDITORIAL TEAM
Editor-in-Chief Nthabiseng Makuwa
Managing Editor Mathapelo Monaisa
Copy Editor Delien Burger
Photographers Jacoline Schoonees
Yolande Snyman
Katlholo Maifadi
Yandisa Monakali
Content coordination Busisiwe Kubheka
Mathapelo Monaisa
Publisher The Department of International
Relations and Cooperation
(DIRCO)
Tel: +27 12 351 1000,
www.dirco.gov.za, Private Bag
X52, Pretoria, 0001
460 Soutpansberg Road,
Rietondale, Pretoria, 0084,
Republic of South Africa
No portion of this newsletter may be reproduced in any form
without the written permission of the publishers. DIRCO is not
responsible for unsolicited material and reserves the right to
amend and alter copy and visual material as deemed
necessary. Copyright is reserved. Views in this newsletter are
not necessarily those of DIRCO or the South African
Government. These entities cannot accept any liability arising
out of or in connection with the contents of this publication.
Dear Diplomats,
Editor ’s Letter
The year 2019 started immediately with South Africa’s (SA)
assumption of its non-permanent seat on the United Nations
Security Council (UNSC) for the period 2019-2020. Thus far,
the country has made her presence felt ensuring that her
objectives are reflected in the statements made by appointed
representatives at the Security Council. To date, South Africa
has made 22 statements on a various global issues. The
significance of South Africa’s third tenure on the UNSC has
been elevated when the country deposited its Instrument of
Ratification of the UN Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear
Weapons on the 25th of February 2019. A positive step
towards the realisation of the mandate to silence guns by
2020.
This year also marks the 25th anniversary of the birth of South
Africa’s democracy. On 27 April 1994, all South Africans of
voting age queued at the polls to cast their votes to usher in a
democratic government. Since then, the country has been
admitted to the participation on the international stage across
numerous fora including the African Union. In February,
Minister Lindiwe Sisulu accompanied President Cyril
Ramaphosa to the the 32nd Ordinary Session of the Assembly
of African Union (AU) Heads of State and Government where
South Africa was confirmed as Chair of the AU for the year
2020. An incredible opportunity for South Africa as an
influential state within the continent.
The World Economic Forum in Davos, Swtizerland held under
the theme “Globalization 4.0: Shaping a Global Architecture in
the Age of the Fourth Industrial Revolution” gave South Africa
a platform to promote President Ramaphosa objective to
attract foreign investment for envisaged growth.
Under the leadership of Minister Sisulu, DIRCO
continues to carry this message globally and in bi-
lateral meetings held by the department’s principals
such as the SA-French Foreign Policy Dialogue, the
visit to India, and the Minister’s breakfast with the
Diplomatic Corps, among many others.
It has already been an incredibly eventful year and we
look forward to the upcoming SADC Solidarity
Conference which will further intensify the regions
support for the self-determination of the people of the
Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic. As the only African
country which is still colonised, it is only right that South
Africa as part of SADC adds its voice to this important
cause. .
MMMathapelo Monaisa
South Africa and India enjoy a strategic partnership and bilateral relations are
anchored by a deep and shared history of friendship and solidarity. A strong historical
relationship also exists between South African and Indian’s political leadership
establishments. Both countries have produced two 20th-century icons in the persons
of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela. Since its independence, India was one of
the leading countries at the forefront calling attention to the injustices of apartheid
South Africa. Today, our respective nations enjoy a strategic partnership, which has
grown in leaps and bounds, and is underpinned by a deep and shared history of
friendship and solidarity. Our relations cover a wide spectrum of political to
economic, scientific, defence and multilateral cooperation – a reflection of the depth
and breadth of this special relationship.
The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Reginah Mhaule,
undertook an Official Visit to India from 6 to 10 January 2019, visiting our Consulate
in Mumbai and our Mission in New Delhi respectively. The visit also preceded a State
Visit by President Cyril Ramaphosa and his attendance as the Chief Guest to the
Republic Day celebrations of the Republic of India.
The aim of Deputy Minister’s Mhaule’s visit to India was, among others, to participate
in the Raisina Dialogue, India’s flagship multilateral conference on geopolitics and
geo-economics. She participated in three flagship events at the dialogue, including in
the only session dedicated to Africa: Africa First: Global Growth’s New Frontier.
Deputy Minister Mhaule used the platform to advance South Africa’s policy in terms
of key issues such as the continental agenda, regional development and peace and
security.
The key objectives of her visit were:
• strengthening the commitment to the bonds of friendship that exist between
both countries and the consolidation and strengthening of the bilateral
relationship
• ensuring that the partnership between the two countries is supportive of the
objectives of the National Development Plan and contributes to job creation
and poverty alleviation in order to address the rising inequality in South Africa
• engaging with identified think tanks to encourage and facilitate trade and
investment into South Africa and advance South Africa’s foreign policy
objectives
• aligning positions in global fora in pursuance of the strengthening of multilateral
organisations and the reform of global institutions of governance.
During her visit, Deputy Minister Mhaule met with her counterpart, the Minister of
State for External Affairs, General VK Singh (Retd), during which they engaged on
issues of mutual interest, such as enhancing the trade and commercial relationship,
growing foreign direct investment from India and cooperation within the international
fora. While in Mumbai, the Deputy Minister also met with the Governor of the State of
Maharashtra, Vidyasagar Rao. Mumbai
Deputy Minister Mhaule visits India by Lebohang Matshaba
is the commercial capital of India and has evolved into a global financial hub.
In her engagement with the Governor, they reflected on the trade relations between
South Africa and how these could be further advanced. Throughout her visit in
India, the Deputy Minister met with a number of strategic think tanks in order to
encourage and facilitate trade and investment into South Africa and advance South
Africa’s foreign policy objectives with regard to peace and security and economic
development, including the Oceans Economy.
Another highlight of her visit was the speech delivered by the Deputy Minister on
South Africa’s 25 Years of Freedom at the respected think tank, the Research and
Information Systems for Developing Countries, in which she reflected on South
Africa’s foreign policy achievements in the democratic era, as well as the priorities
going forward.
The 2019 Cricket World Cup (officially ICC Cricket World Cup 2019) is the 12th edition of the Cricket World Cup, scheduled
to be hosted by England and Wales, from 30 May to 14 July 2019.
As part of the pre-tournament efforts, the International Cricket Council (ICC) visited Berlin, Germany, on 17 February 2019,
together with the ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy. To promote the Cricket World Cup, a friendly cricket match took place in
front of the historic German Federal Parliament, Bundestag.
Attending this historic event was Mr Brian Mantle (CEO, German Cricket Federation), Mr Siegfried Franz (President, German
Cricket Federation), Mr Ed Shuttleworth (Regional Development Manager, ICC) and Minister Plenipotentiary, Adv Mohamed
Cassimjee, representing Ambassador Stone Sizani, together with players from the women's national team as well as some
representatives from cricket clubs in Berlin.
The event also provided a great opportunity to promote cricket in Germany, including highlighting the growing interest in the
women’s league. In this regard, Germany is currently the fastest-growing cricket-playing country in the world with over 350
teams growing at a rate of about 25% every year.
Cricket South Africa (CSA) also conveyed its support for the event and was encouraged to see the number of European
countries playing cricket continues to grow year on year. The Embassy will also continue to develop relations with the
German Cricket Federation in cooperation with CSA and the Ministry of Sport.
Cricket World Cup Trophy comes to Berlinby Adv Mohamed Cassimjee
Adv Mohamed Cassimjee, Minister Plenipotentiary
South African Embassy, Berlin with Mr Ed Shuttleworth (Regional
Development Manager , International Cricket Council) and the ICC
World Cup Trophy
Mr Brian Mantle (CEO Cricket Federation) together with the
Diplomatic representatives of Test playing nations in Berlin
Germany
The German Woman’s National team to show the advancement
of women’s cricket in Germany
MISSION FEATURE
South African trade delegation woos Kuwaiti businessmen
The Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) received a trade
delegation from South Africa (SA) led by Mr Mzolisa Bona, South Afirca’s
Ambassador to Kuwait. The delegation was in Kuwait to promote business
opportunities between the two countries. The delegation, led by Seema
Sardha, Director Export Promotion Middle East from the Department of Trade
and Industry (DTI) in South Africa. As the first country to perform the first heart
transplant in the world, SA is promoting Africa’s vibrant and talented workforce
under 35 years old, its state-of-the-art technology, and pioneering and
innovative healthcare facilities.
Ms Sardha commented, “We have seven designated economic zones to
create a vibrant South Africa. We have a favourable business environment for
everyone to take advantage of, a well-placed democracy. Furthermore, our
legal system is remarkable, and we are the gateway to a one billion rand
market in the African continent. This is proof of South Africa’s innovativation
and what we can bring to your table,”
Sardha noted that opportunities in the agriculture sector are also vast, as well
as in the area of energy, pharma and tourism. With great opportunities in the
pharmaceutical and tourism sectors, Ms Seema Sardha further highlighted the
fact that South Africa is open for business. “We want you to invest in our
country. South Africa is open for business and we are open to all through
collaborative work, BOT, PPP and technology transfer. We invite the chamber
to visit South Africa and enjoy the hospitality we offer,”
Ms Seema Sardha addressing the delegates at the Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and Industry
MISSION FEATURE
Ambassador Bona added, “We are promoting mutually
beneficial opportunities for both countries. We want you to
be part of South Africa’s emerging economy and be part of
our growth,” The sectors included are: Agro-processing
(meat, dairy products and beverages), chemicals used for
agriculture, food, industry, water purification, oil and gas,
construction and engineering, electro-technical, medical
equipment, pharmaceuticals, veterinary medicines, health
and beauty, work wear (safety boots) and clothing, textiles
and leather.
My career in Government started on 1 April 1973, after periods with the CPA and TPA. In July
1988, I was transferred to the Mission in the Ciskei, where my main function was the
administration of the seconded officials in the former homeland. On 1 January 1990, I was
transferred to the Mission in Umtata, (Development and Cooperation section), where my main
function was projects, for example, the building of schools, clinics, special employment
programmes and other government projects.
This was an interesting stage in my career and was also very satisfying, working with people
and to see structures completed like classrooms/clinics to the benefit of the people.
In April 1994, I was transferred back to Pretoria after which was I was moved to the Mission in
the Netherlands, my first real posting. We left in August 1995. My eldest daughter graduated
from the American School in 1999. As a family, we were happy in the Netherlands and with
heavy hearts we returned to South Africa in September 1999.
The next two postings were completely different than Europe: Kuwait in the Middle East from
2002 to 2006, where our youngest daughter graduated from the British School. We then went
to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates from 2009 to 2013. There it was just my wife and I.
We made it our temporary home and soon found our feet and enjoyed the rich culture and food
of the Middle East.
We felt blessed being able to see the world and tour. We met many interesting people and
have fond memories.
I will always remember the Branch: Public Diplomacy, which became my home when I was
transferred back to Head Office from the two missions mentioned above. Interesting times, first
under Mr Mamoepa and from 2014 with the present DDG, Mr Monyela. What I will always
remember is the fact that the travel budget for official trips abroad was always constrained and
my favourite saying to colleagues was “no money”. My last day with the department was on 31
December 2018.
I am now my own boss. I must admit, so far so good, although it still feels as if I am on holiday.
This being the reason I think why I am not missing work so much at this stage.
After working for 46 years and being busy all the time, and now still in the early days of my
retirement, I will have to get something to keep myself busy. Luckily for me, I can fall back on
my experience over the years with the Government and put it to good use, especially in the
field of charity.
Before that can happen, with all the postings I had with DIRCO, I haven’t seen many places in
South Africa and would like to tour my own country first.
A few words from Mr Fanus Venter
HEAD OFFICE
DDG Clayson Monyela hands over a gift to Mr Fanus Venter, on behalf of Branch: Public
Diplomacy,
THE G20 AND AFRICA: NAVIGATING AFRICAN PRIORITES FOR THE G20
By: Busisiwe Kubheka
On the 29th January 2019, the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) held a G20 Africa conference
at the Protea Hotel in Menlyn under the theme: The G20 and Africa: Navigating African priorites for the G20.
During the conference, Deputy Minister of the Department of International Relations & Cooperation Mr Luwellyn
Landers delivered a key note address on the participation at the GEG-Africa programme and the T20 African
standing group meeting. In his speech, Deputy Minister Landers noted that the Buenos Aires G20 Leaders’
Summit held in 2018, marked the 10th year anniversary of the G20 meeting at Leaders’ Summit level, which he
described as an historic opportunity for the Leaders to reflect on current global economic, financial and
development challenges.
Deputy Minister Landers’ speech was focused on two broad areas. Firstly, South Africa’s foreign policy approach
to its engagement with the G20 and secondly, South Africa’s priorities in terms of the developmental agenda and
G20 support for Africa, in particular. When further explaining our foreign policy approach, Deputy Minister Landers
mentioned the four strategic foreign policy pillars of our Republic that guide South Africa’s participation at the G20
namely;
i) advancing our national interest to attain domestic objectives;
ii) enhancing the African agenda and promoting Africa’s sustainable development;
iii) influencing the global multilateral architecture; and
iv) advancing the agenda of the South through strengthening South-South cooperation and North-South
Dialogue.
Now, let’s turn the focus on the G20 Buenos Aires Leaders’ Summit 2018 and its outcomes. South Africa
participated in the Buenos Aires Leaders’ Summit that was held under the theme, “Building Consensus for Fair and
Sustainable Development”. The Summit focused on the priority areas of “the future of work”, “infrastructure for
development”, and “a sustainable food future”. Deputy Minister Landers said and I quote, “Despite prevailing geo-
political and international trade tensions, the G20 Leaders were able to muster the political will to adopt the Buenos
Aires Leaders’ Declaration by consensus. It was underpinned by the Leaders’ “renewed commitment to work
together to improve a rules-based international order that is capable of effectively responding to a rapidly changing
world.” This was a significant achievement recalling that the recently held G7 and Asia-Pacific Economic
Cooperation (APEC) Summits were unable to adopt a consensus Declaration.”
“President Ramaphosa throughout his engagements at the Summit firstly
emphasized the following:
1. The need to build safer and more resilient global financial
systems;
2. The promotion of the international development agenda;
3. The continued commitment to a rules based multilateral system;
4. The need for inclusive growth and sustainable economies;
and
5. The rejection of seemingly rising unilateralism and
protectionism,” said Deputy Minister Landers
In conclusion, Deputy Minister Landers looked ahead to the G20 Osaka Summit
to be held on 28 and 29 June 2019, and building on the strong commitment of
the G20 to development and African priorities. He said, “We are encouraged by
the Prime Minister Abe’s commitment to use his Presidency of the G20 to “lead
global economic growth by promoting free trade and innovation, achieving both
economic growth and reduction of disparities, and contributing to the
development agenda and other global issues with the SDGs at its core. Through
these efforts, Japan seeks to realise and promote a free and open, inclusive and
sustainable, “human-centred future society.” In this context, the deliberations of
this conference is as an important input in guiding South Africa’s approach and
engagement in the work of the G20 during 2019
Deputy Minister Luwellyn Landers at the SAIIA G20 Africa Conference
Nepad CEO Dr Ibrahim Assane Mayaki, Dep Min
Landers, Japan's Ambassador Mr Norio Maruyama and
Ms Elizabeth Sidiropoulos (GEG Africa Member)
PUBLIC LECTURE
SCENE @ DIRCO
Monthly Media Briefing
Minister’s breakfast with the
Diplomatic Corps
Mr Ben Malan talks about Travel
Smart With DIRCO during DIRCO
Open Day
Minister Sisulu and French counterpart, Mr
Jean Yves le Drian
Ambassador T Joyini arriving with the Kumalo
family at the memorial of Ambassador Dumisani
Kumalo
Learners listening attentively at DIRCO Open Day
Minister Sisulu meets with Somalia’s Minister of
Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr
Ahmed Isse Awad during the AU Summit
DIRCO OPEN DAY 2019
The Directorate Internal Communication and Social Media within Branch: Public
Diplomacy (PD), hosted a successful DIRCO Open Day on Friday, 22 February 2019 at
DIRCO’s OR Tambo Building. The Open Day, which took place under the theme:
“Information Sharing Is Key to Guiding the Youth”, targeted approximately 80 students
from three Senior Secondary Schools around Pretoria; namely: I.R Lesolang High
School, Jafta Mahlangu High School and Clapham High School. The invitation was
extended to grade 10 – 12 learners who are interested in studying International
Relations, Political Science and related fields.
The purpose of the Open Day was to inform and educate students about the mandate
of the department, experience the work environment and different branches within the
Department. Furthermore, this excursion exposed the learners to how South Africa’s
Foreign Policy is implemented.
Amongst amazing speakers such as Mr Malan from Consular Services to Mr Albert
Geldenhuys who took the learners through a career presentation about careers
available at DIRCO; this prestigious event was also honoured by the presence of
Ambassador Martin Schäefer, the German Ambassador to South Africa, who took the
learners through his journey to Diplomacy and left the learners eager to one day, if not
soon, become South African Diplomats.
DIRCO OPEN DAY
Learners participate in a quiz during DIRCO Open Day
Ubuntu Radio’s Mr Tali Munzhedzi, the Programme
Director with some of the learners
Germany’s Ambassador to South Africa, Mr Martin
Schäefer delivering the keynote address
Learners from 3 high schools in Pretoria attended the DIRCO Open Day
Contributions can be sent to:
Mathapelo Monaisa @ [email protected] or Busisiwe Kubheka @ [email protected]