Diplomatic Training Commences for Ambassador Designates Skweyiya, Balfour and Leon

Pretoria: The Department of International Relations and Cooperation is pleased to announce that Former Minister of Social Development, Mr Zola Skweyiya, former Correctional Services Minister, Mr Ngconde Balfour as well as the former Leader of the Democratic Alliance, Mr Tony Leon will today, Monday 03 August 2009 undergo diplomatic training in preparation for future deployment in the diplomatic corps.

The diplomatic training will capacitate the Ambassador Designates with the prerequisite skills required to run a Mission as well as provide an interaction with senior officials on various aspects of the functions of the Department. The training takes into cognisance that the Ambassador - designates are seasoned politicians in our government system with a wealth of experience in the functioning of government, albeit from opposite political benches.

Diplomatic protocol requires that Ambassador designates receive official confirmation of their acceptance by the receiving state before their deployment. Currently, this process is still in motion.

Finally, President Jacob Zuma upon recommendation by the International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane will make the final decision at an appropriate time with regards to their confirmation as South African representatives as well as countries of accreditation.

Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane wishes the distinguished Ambassador designates success during the Heads of Mission Orientation Programme.

For more information, contact Nomfanelo Kota, on 082 459 3787.

Department of International Relations and Cooperation
Private Bag x 152
Pretoria
0001

3 August 2009