Media statement
14 July 2015
DIRCO to launch two foreign policy institutions
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) will jointly launch the South African Association of Former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives and the South African Council on International Relations on Thursday, 16 July 2015.
The South African Association of Former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives
The purpose of the Association will be to create a platform for former Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Chief Representatives to lend their extensive experience, expertise and institutional memory on international relations and diplomacy towards the execution of South Africa’s foreign policy interests.
Former Heads of Missions will be lend their experience in order to stimulate discussions on international relations and diplomacy so as to advance the public’s understanding and support for South Africa’s key foreign policy objectives. The Association will promote the exchange of policy views and information, which will encourage greater understanding of global, regional and bilateral trends, as well as provide inputs for government policy formulation.
The Association will also provide a forum for ongoing discussions and analysis pertaining to international political, economic and cultural matters, as well as issues pertaining to science and technology. The Association will therefore function as a non-profit, independent, critical thinking and constructive analysis institution. It will have a constructive relationship with DIRCO and other government departments, mentor young diplomats, and serve as an institutional memory for South Africa’s foreign relations.
South African Council on International Relations (SACOIR)
SACOIR was established by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, in consultation with the 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 DIRCO on the development and implementation of South Africa’s foreign policy.
Critical to the implementation of South Africa’s foreign policy recommendations embedded in the National Development Plan (NDP), SACOIR will build a momentum and give effect, particularly to the NDP’s Chapter 7 proposals, in facing the challenges of poverty, inequality and unemployment through foreign policy engagements.
Enquiries: Nelson Kgwete, 076 431 3078
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria
0084
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