Media Statement
07 June 2018, New York, USA
Minister Sisulu arrives in New York ahead of the UNSC elections
The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Lindiwe Sisulu, has today, 07 June 2018 arrived in New York, ahead of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) elections scheduled for tomorrow, 08 June 2018.
South Africa is seeking to be elected at the UNGA to serve as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the period 2019-2020 (1 January 2019-31 December 2020). This will be South Africa’s third term on the UN Security Council, having served in 2007-2008 and 2011-2012.
South Africa’s candidacy was endorsed by the African Union in January 2018 and has since also received endorsements from several countries around the world.
The non-permanent seat to UNSC for the African Group is currently held by Ethiopia.
South Africa’s term on the Council will also coincide with aspirations of the African continent to “silence the guns” by 2020 – an objective and an ideal that South Africa would like to see achieved throughout the world.
During its tenure South Africa will among other things, prioritize strengthening the cooperation between the United Nations and regional and sub-regional organisations specifically between the United Nations and African Union as well as conflict resolution and peacebuilding through inclusive dialogue.
South Africa remains a strong proponent of multilateralism through participation in the UN as the organisation is the embodiment of the international community’s will to attain and maintain international peace and security, to promote the economic and social well-being of all nations, and the advancement of all peoples.
Whilst in New York, Minister Sisulu is expected to pay a courtesy call on United Nations Secretary General, H.E Mr Antonio Gutteres and the President of the General Assembly, H.E Mr Miroslav Lajčák. Minister Sisulu is also expected to have bilateral meetings with other countries seeking election (Belgium, Germany, Indonesia, Maldives and Dominican Republic) to discuss cooperation in the Security Council should they be elected.
Enquiries: Mr Ndivhuwo Mabaya, 083 645 7838 or Mabayan@dirco.gov.za
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION
OR Tambo Building
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