Pretoria - The launch of two foreign policy organs which complement one another gives true meaning to the diplomacy of Ubuntu, says International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane.
“Today we launch two prestigious foreign policy organs of this department. Today we give true meaning to our diplomacy of Ubuntu,” said Minister Nkoana-Mashabane on Thursday.
This as she launched the South African Association of Former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives (SAAOFARHCR) and the South African Council on International Relations (SACOIR) in Pretoria.
The purpose of SAAOFARHCR will be to create a platform for former ambassadors, high commissioners and chief representatives to lend their extensive expertise on international diplomacy towards the execution of South Africa’s foreign policy interests.
SACOIR was established by the Minister in consultation with Cabinet. The council comprises members who were appointed by the Minister from academia, business, civil society and labour. SACOIR will serve as a consultative platform for South African think-tanks, academics and other relevant representatives of civil society to interact with the department on the development and implementation of the country’s foreign policy.
Speaking at launch ahead of Mandela, the Minister paid tribute to former President Nelson Mandela, saying that he was not only the father of the nation and an international icon but also a true pan Africanist that personified Ubuntu diplomacy.
“This is diplomacy in action. These two platforms are a strong testimony that we remain consistent in practising values, traditions espoused by our struggle for our independence,” she said.
Minister Nkoane-Mashabane said that while the platforms of the two organisations may be similar, they complement one another.
“The platforms may be similar but are definitely not the same. They are like two sides of a coin. It’s important to mention that in executing different mandates these two structures would complement each other.
“If you sit in a room and agree on everything you must know you’re in a wrong gathering but you mustn’t be different for the sake of being different. It should be that the best contribution to the debate, it’s what serves our national interest, is what helps advance the African agenda, it’s what helps us implement the ten year implementation agenda,” explained the Minister.
The Minister further noted that in today’s complex world, practising international relations is no longer the preserve of states but of ordinary men and women. Civil society organisations and even private individuals have increasingly become active citizens.
“We have a responsibility to make our National Development Plan (NDP) work for our people. We have a responsibility to make ordinary men and women in this country understand how we domesticize our foreign policy,” she said.
Minister Nkoane-Mashabane welcomed both organisations into the Dirco family and wished them well with the task ahead of unpacking and repacking South Africa’s foreign policy implementation to the vision of a better country and continent and better life for all.
“They [organisations] will speak for us and speak to us. They will also be our ears but they will also offer a helping hand and advice as we move forward together,” said the Minister.
Chair of SACOIR and former Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Aziz Pahad, said he was happy that the Minister brought to fruition the idea of creating this body, adding that the body will soon establish working groups. The organisation will also advise the Minister.
Chair of SAAOFARHCR Ambassador George Nene said his organisation is committed to ploughing expertise back into society so as to serve South Africa and humankind. - SAnews.gov.za
