Status on Government to establish full diplomatic relations with the new state of Sudan and maintain diplomatic relations with Khartoum

National Assembly

For written reply

Question no:            795  (NW866E)

Mr KS Mubu (DA) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation:
Whether the Government will (a) establish full diplomatic relations with the new state of Sudan and (b) maintain diplomatic relations with Khartoum; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details in each case?

Reply

• Yes, upon expiry of the CPA on 9 July 2011 and the establishment of the new state in Southern Sudan, South Africa will establish full diplomatic relations with the state and upgrade its Consulate to a fully fledged Embassy.
  
  
• South Africa will maintain diplomatic relations with Sudan.  Sudan is important for the stability and development of the Horn of Africa region.  In this regard South Africa will maintain its Embassy in Khartoum.  Over the years South Africa enjoyed favourable bilateral relations with the Sudan.  South Africa will honour the various agreements signed with the Republic of the Sudan and will strengthen these relations where necessary.