Contents

02 PART ONE

02 Message from the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr NC Dlamini Zuma

05 Foreword by the Director-General, Dr A Ntsaluba

07 Mandate of the Department

07 Defi nition of ’s Foreign Policy

09 South Africa’s regional and multilateral interests

41 PART TWO

41 Key Performance Areas

41 Section 1: Medium-Term Priorities and Objectives 42 Section 2: Service Delivery Improvement Plan 2006/07 86 Section 3: Resource Allocations per Departmental Programme

92 PART THREE

92 Section 1: Asset Management Plan 96 Section 2: Information Communication Technology Plan 104 Section 3: Branch Foreign Service Institute and Human Resources

Cover Picture: 110 Abbreviations of Government Departments President supported by Minister Dr Nkosazana 110 Dlamini Zuma receiving Former President at List of Acronyms the Progressive Government Summit in Hammanskraal with Presidential Legal Adviser Adv Mojanku Gumbi looking on.

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 1 PART ONE

MESSAGE FROM THE MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS, DR NC DLAMINI ZUMA

n capturing the challenges that lie ahead, we In 1994 this dream began to take concrete shape acknowledge, as President Thabo Mbeki has said and became a living reality. In the last twelve years Iin the State of the Nation Address in February we have continued to make advances in building this year, that today is better than yesterday and a country free of racism and characterised tomorrow will surely be better than today. by democracy and a respect for human rights. Much has been done to attain our goals. Hence we Fifty years ago when 20 000 South African women reiterate the words of President Mbeki that state: marched to Pretoria to protest against the Age of Hope and the People’s Season of Joy legislation, they dreamt that the time would come are upon us. when they would be able to walk freely through the roads of a free country as South Africans Yet we also acknowledge that a great deal of work on a common journey and as a winning nation, remains to be done to ensure that the gains of the pooling efforts towards the eradication of poverty, present become permanent positive features in racism and sexism and towards the building of a people’s lives. Thus, with a conscious striving, we better life for all. are redoubling our efforts to bring an end to poverty Minister of Foreign Affairs, and underdevelopment. Hence, our government’s Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma. Thirty years ago when children in Soweto programme for accelerating growth as well as took to the streets in protest against apartheid other interventions to bring about an integrated education, they fought for the right to grow up in national economy and to improve the skills of our peace and stability and experience full equality people. in creating a better life within in a better Africa and a with others as equal citizens in a country they better world. This has also been an African Season could call their own. It is also our conviction that we have made strides of Hope that we believe will continue to bear fruit

2 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 torn and divided, in entrenching democracy and engaging in post confl ict reconstruction.

Signifi cant progress has been achieved in as a result of the united efforts under the umbrella of the and some advances have also been made on other fronts in Liberia, in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and in Cote d’Ivoire. As South Africa, we are proud that we have been participants in these efforts and that our work has not been in vain. We shall continue to support these activities in the future and to ensure the implementation of NEPAD projects as part of our agenda of working towards sustained African economic and social development. The attainment of a prosperous Africa with the full participation of highly productive and skilled people is a real possibility that we shall continue to aim towards through our international work in the second half of this fi rst decade of the 21st century.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Aziz Pahad. We continue to be seized with the attainment of Sue van der Merwe. the Millennium Development Goals and the need to impress upon the global community that Africa’s special development challenges require poverty- in the years to come because of the groundwork scale interventions by all. Global poverty is the and its eradication requires an acknowledgement that has already been done in cementing peace biggest challenge in the journey to overall human that the global system has played its part in and stability in areas that had previously been war- progress and social and economic advancement increasing the gap between rich and poor.

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 3 As the Chair of the G77 and China in 2006, We are strengthening our work in the IBSA (- their reality and to enhance their interactions and South Africa will continue to campaign for the -South Africa) Dialogue Forum to enhance exchange with their neighbours and those on the strengthening of the multilateral system within our common positions so as to intensify our fi ght other side of the globe. the overall context of a reformed . against poverty, to deepen trade links between the South Africa will continue its active engagement to countries of the South and to ensure that the needs The challenge in the immediate future is to continue ensure that greater pressure is brought to bear for of developing countries are a central thrust in trade to initiate links and to open frank discussions that the democratisation of UN structures, with a focus negotiations of the WTO. lead the countries of the world towards tolerance on a more inclusive United Nations Human Rights of differences in religion, race, colour, creed and Council. Our efforts will also continue to focus on economic culture, and to move towards reconciliation and to diplomacy as we aim for prosperity for South Africa’s encourage the dynamic participation of people in Together with our partners in the South, we shall people, for the African continent as a whole as well building their own future. continue to be a progressive agent of change and as a better life for all nations of the world. to work towards a new world order characterised by common development and an inclusive approach Our task in strengthening the bonds that connect to world affairs. We shall continue to build bridges us to the rest of the world is to assist in nurturing between people and nations, initiating dialogue and conditions of permanent peace and enduring stability helping to set and assert a developmental agenda in which citizens can create and innovate, equip in all multilateral fora. themselves with new tools and skills to improve

4 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 FOREWORD BY THE DIRECTOR GENERAL, DR AYANDA NTSALUBA

his Strategic Plan is the blueprint that outlines of the International Relations Peace and Security and expediting the practical implementation of the the service delivery of the Department Cluster (IRPS) in which the DFA participates as well African Union (AU) NEPAD projects. Tof Foreign Affairs (DFA) as directed as the Extended Cabinet Committee and the terms by the Minister of Foreign Affairs. It delineates and tone of engagement are also guided by the This Plan thus defi nes foreign policy principles and and summarises the plans that are in place to President’s State of the Nation Address. objectives, and presents an overview of how these meet targets as set out in the business plans of will be dealt with in the context of bilateral, regional, various units and components of the Department The Strategic Planning Workshop held from 5- continental and multilateral relations. in accordance with the department’s mission of 7 March 2006 has shaped the development of promoting South Africa’s national interests and this Plan through its analysis of South Africa’s Part Two and Three of this Plan focus on the values, consolidating the African Agenda as part of foreign policy and its discussion of the emphasis immediate to medium term priorities and objectives the practical realisation of an African Renaissance of our international engagements in the years to of the Department as guided by it’s business plan and creating a better life for all. come. This workshop also reaffi rmed the DFA’s including corporate services matters of critical commitment to meet its goals as directed by the importance to the effective functioning of the DFA. The Plan conforms to the regulatory framework of Minister. The workshop was an opportunity to the Public Finance Management Act (Act No. 1 of refl ect on the achievements of our foreign policy, The medium-term priorities and objectives include 1999) and public service regulations. identify future challenges and propose creative the following issues: consolidation of the African outcomes through confronting challenges that we Agenda; South-South co-operation; political and Part One of the Strategic Plan outlines the tasks as a Department need to achieve. The workshop economic relations; global governance: political of the Department in carrying out its mandate in emphasised the concerted efforts of government in issues; global governance: socio-economic issues; formulating and implementing South Africa’s foreign this Age of Hope, stressing the importance of skills global governance: security issues; human resource policy and international relations. In this regard, development, working towards a Reformed United development, and provision of effi cient and effective foreign policy priorities are also part and parcel Nations, strengthening South-South Co-operation support services.

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 5 Key performance and priority areas for the coming A skills audit has recently been completed so as to the necessary competencies. The internship programme period include the New Head Offi ce Project, the identify opportunities for training and re-organising has proved successful as some of the interns have been construction and refurbishment of chanceries and our human resources to respond industriously to placed permanently in different units of the Department offi cial residences, provision of an effective and the needs of the 21st Century within the global and the Cadet Programme is also currently being effi cient fi nancial system in line with the PFMA diplomatic community. implemented. guidelines, a human resources plan, resource allocation per departmental objective as well as The Foreign Service Institute has been upgraded into Economic diplomacy remains a priority for our offi cials in an improved information and communication a fully-fl edged branch in line with our commitment this complex global economic system. The attainment of technology service. of nurturing talent within with Department to be true a better quality of life for South Africa’s people and higher ambassadors of our foreign policy objectives. It is also in rates of economic growth will be enhanced through our The Strategic Plan serves as a basis for Business this regard that we have recruited a Talent Manager with full and rich interaction with the international community Units at Head Offi ce and our Missions abroad for the task of streamlining an effective career progression on trade issues, through identifying greater opportunities the development and implementation of Business system within the Department. Roadshows have already for investment and through continuing to play our part Plans, Performance Agreements and resource been undertaken to popularise the Department as a in Africa’s development so that the African people can allocations. strategic employer of choice to potential employees with harness their own resources for their own benefi ts.

6 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 MANDATE OF THE DEPARTMENT Co-ordinate and co-operate with other South Africa’s foreign policy incorporates economic OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS government departments and stakeholders diplomacy supportive of the Accelerated Shared with regard to the pursuit of South Africa’s Growth Initiative for South Africa (ASGISA) in order international relations; to grow the economy faster and create more jobs to The Department of Foreign Affairs has address the challenge of poverty eradication. the following mandate: Build a modern, effective and excellence-driven department; South Africa conducts its foreign policy within a To formulate, co-ordinate, implement and global order that is characterised by political and manage South Africa’s foreign policy; Provide effi cient and effective consular services economic marginalisation of Africa and the South to South African nationals abroad; in general. In order to address this challenge, To advance South Africa’s national interests South Africa’s foreign policy is underpinned by the and values through bilateral and multilateral Provide a world-class and uniquely South African following principles: diplomatic relations; Protocol service; That the interests of the African continent are central Monitor international developments and advise DEFINITION OF SOUTH AFRICA’S to our foreign policy; government on foreign policy options and their FOREIGN POLICY alignment with domestic priorities; That issues of human rights are central to South Africa’s Foreign Policy is informed by its international relations and an understanding that Manage and deliver government information domestic policy and the two are mutually reinforcing. they extend beyond the political, embracing the and communicate government policy positions Informed by its domestic policy, South Africa’s economic, social and environmental; to various stakeholders; foreign policy is guided by the vision of “a better That just and lasting solutions to the problems of South Africa in a better Africa and a better World,” humankind can only come through the promotion Contribute to the formulation and development that is, a better life for all. of democracy world-wide; of international law and enhance respect for its That considerations of justice and respect for provisions; South Africa defi nes itself as a democratic international law should guide relations between . This means that South Africa nations; Promote and infl uence in order to has a clearly articulated socio-economic programme, That peace is the goal for which all nations secure a rules-based international system; which it pursues through active state interventions should strive, and where this breaks down, and supportive institutional structures. In this regard,

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 7 internationally agreed and non-violent Pursuant to the above, South Africa remains groupings of the South, such as the Non-Aligned mechanisms, including effective arms-control committed to strengthening the African Union (AU) Movement (NAM), the G77 + China, the China- regimes, should be employed; and the implementation of the New Partnership for Africa Forum, the India-Brazil-South Africa Dialogue That multilateralism informs our interactions in Africa’s Development (NEPAD) and to capacitating Forum (IBSA), and the New Asia-Africa Strategic the global sphere; and the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) as Partnership (NAASP). That economic development depends on growing a motivating force for an integrated and effective regional and international economic integration Southern African Development Community South Africa’s commitment to the renaissance of and co-operation in an interdependent world. (SADC). Peace and stability in the continent are Africa also extends to the renaissance of Africans in very critical for economic growth and development. the Diaspora, including those in the Caribbean and As we pursue our foreign policy we are guided by It is in this context that SA would continue its efforts Latin America. the following priorities: in fi nding lasting and sustainable solutions to the confl icts in the continent, as well as in post confl ict South Africa’s engagement with the developed The Consolidation of the African Agenda reconstruction and development. countries of the North is premised on the notion South-South Co-operation of forging partnerships and bringing about peace, North -South Dialogue South Africa is also committed to enhancing its security and development in the South. South Africa, Global Governance (Political, Economic and bilateral relations on the African continent. Our together with other leaders of the African continent Security) objective is to have diplomatic representation in has systemically engaged leaders of the developed Strengthening bilateral relations with other every African state. countries, including those of the most industrialised nations of the world countries (G8), specifi cally to secure support for South-South co-operation is of strategic importance NEPAD. Consequently, the NEPAD has become a The future of South Africa is inextricably linked to in the pursuit of our foreign policy objectives of regular item on the agenda of the G8 Summits. that of Africa and the South. The Consolidation of addressing the challenges of economic and political the African Agenda therefore serves as a point of marginalisation emanating from globalisation, which With regard to the United Nations (UN), World Trade departure in our engagements with the international favours the countries of the North. Organisation and the Bretton Wood Institutions, community. This entails strengthening multilateral (the IMF and the ), South Africa strives institutions at regional and continental levels, In advancing the agenda of Africa and the South, for fundamental reform in the governance and as well as supporting the implementation of the South Africa actively engages and co-operates with management of these institutions, with the view to programmes of these institutions. like-minded countries in regional and sub-regional enhancing equity, transparency and effi ciency.

8 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 South Africa also recognises the imperative to society is also relevant in the context of our AFRICA MULTILATERAL reinforce the concept of collective security and vision for the Continent. Coupled with this is the rules-based multilateralism, with the UN and its understanding that socio-economic development South Africa’s goals for the continent are the various bodies playing the central role, particularly cannot take place without peace and stability, resolution of confl ict and the building of a framework in matters of peace and security in Africa and as they are a necessary condition for socio- in which socio-economic development can take the world in general. To this end, South Africa economic development. Conversely, socio- place. The entry points for achieving these goals continues to demonstrate its commitment to the economic development is necessary in the are provided by SADC, the AU and NEPAD. peaceful resolution of confl icts and post-confl ict context of addressing the root causes of conflict reconstruction and development on the Continent and instability. Within this framework, our efforts SADC, as a Regional Economic Community (REC), and beyond. are directed at creating an environment in which is one of the recognised building blocks of the AU. all states on the Continent can achieve their full It is also one of the key implementing agents of the It is against this backdrop that South Africa’s potential. NEPAD programme. The Department has been commitment to global peace and stability is further fully involved in the restructuring of SADC, which demonstrated through engagement in the Israel/ Our engagement with Africa rests on three pillars: has been initiated in order for it to deliver tangible Palestine confl ict and the Iranian nuclear crisis, and achievements within the region, as well as play its in the Middle East in general. Strengthening Africa’s multilateral institutions rightful role on the continent. Within the region, continentally and regionally, viz. the African SADC remains the primary vehicle for South African SOUTH AFRICA’S REGIONAL AND Union (AU) and the policy and action to achieve regional integration and MULTILATERAL INTERESTS Southern African Development Community development within all priority development sectors. (SADC); In addition, the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence AFRICA Supporting the implementation of Africa’s socio- and Security is concerned with regional defence economic development programme, the New and security matters, including issues such as drug The South African Government firmly believes Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD); traffi cking, confl ict prevention and post-confl ict that the future of South Africa is inextricably and reconstruction. linked to the future of the African continent Strengthening bilateral political and socio- and that of our neighbours in Southern Africa. economic relations by way of effective structures Of particular importance is the 15-year Regional Therefore, our national vision of building a for dialogue and co-operation. Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP), united, non-racial, non-sexist and prosperous which is aimed at operationalising the restructured

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 9 SADC in order to address pressing developmental Assembly of Heads of State and Government, the Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Nkosazana Dlamini needs. The RISDP has been developed in line with Executive Council of Ministers, the Permanent Zuma at an AU Ministerial meeting in Khartoum, Sudan, with members of the South African NEPAD and is the regional expression of NEPAD Representatives Committee, the Commission, the Delegation. From R/L: Director-General of Foreign priorities and objectives, which will ensure that the Pan-African Parliament, the Peace and Security Affairs Dr Ayanda Ntsaluba, Ambassador Jessie Duarte and Chief Director T Rubushe. SADC’s development agenda works in tandem with Council (PSC), and the African Court of Human the AU. and People’s Rights.

Having largely completed the restructuring process As with the SADC, with these structures now in and, with the RISDP on the socio-economic side place, the focus will now turn to fi nalising outstanding and the Strategic Indicative Plan for the Organ institutional matters, such as the operationalisation (SIPO) on the political side in place, it is now of the Economic, Social and Cultural Council critical that South Africa supports the process of (ECOSOCC), the African Court of Justice and the implementing key regional projects, programmes various fi nancial institutions. More importantly, the and decisions. This should include supporting focus will be on supporting the implementation of AU the SADC Secretariat in terms of strengthening its decisions, programmes and projects, particularly in capacity to perform its delivery mandate, as well as the context of NEPAD and the AU Vision, Mission providing effective leadership as a member of the and Strategy. Support for all the organs mentioned Troika of the SADC Organ. above will continue, including the AU Commission on Human and People’s Rights. We seek to enhance the capacity of the SADC so that it can provide a framework within which each The AU Peace and Security Council (PSC), which is member state would have the opportunity to reach the standing decision-making organ for the prevention, its full potential in terms of peace, security, stability management, and resolution of confl ict, also provides and economic and social development, as well as a collective security and early-warning arrangement to civil society participation and gender equity. facilitate a timely and effi cient response to confl ict and crisis situations in Africa. As a PSC member, South Minister of Public Enterprises and At the continental level, the Department has Africa will support the establishment of continental, Minister of Safety and Security concentrated on the effective and effi cient regional, and national Early Warning systems, the during a State visit to the DRC. operations of the structures of the AU: the African Standby Force (including Regional Brigades),

10 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 the Common African Defence and Security Policy and The AU has adopted NEPAD as its programme of development of priority sector action plans. South the Panel of the Wise. action for socio-economic development and the Africa has two members on the Committee and structures of the AU, along with other continental continues to host the NEPAD and APRM Secretariats As the host of the Pan-African Parliament, one of the bodies such as the African Development Bank, the in Midrand, . The Secretariat supports the “people’s organs” along with the ECOSOCC, South Regional Economic Communities and the member Steering Committee and the HSGIC. Africa has to provide a suitable facility for a conducive states, will be engaged in the implementation of environment and work with the AU to ensure that NEPAD-directed programmes. The Department will be leading a process during the Pan-African Parliament can effectively play its 2006 to develop a national strategy for NEPAD envisaged role. The Pan-African Parliament and NEPAD is a continental instrument to advance that will be designed to provide guidance to local, ECOSOCC are important instruments to ensure people-centred development, based on democratic provincial, and national government entities, as well that civil society stakeholders receive prominence values and principles. It commits African as Parliament and other stakeholders such as civil in their interaction with continental and regional governments to good governance and to detailed society and business. mechanisms. programmes of action within specifi c time scales. It ensures an integrated approach to development With regard to the international community, a Furthermore, the Department will continue to needs on the continent, and at the same time works process of sustained engagement with world support the African Peer Review Mechanism to redefi ne the relationship of the continent with the leaders and institutions has been pursued since (APRM) as a means of involving all national international community, particularly the developed 2001. These strategic interventions have led to a stakeholders in the developmental process and of world and multilateral institutions. raft of commitments in support of the implementation assisting African states to achieve the commitments of the African Agenda and NEPAD, including the voluntarily undertaken in terms of democracy, good The AU has created a Heads of State and Government G8 Africa Action Plan, the Monterrey Consensus, governance and socio-economic development Implementation Committee (HSGIC) to champion the Johannesburg Plan of Implementation, the delivery. Twenty-six states have now joined the the implementation of the NEPAD programme November 2002 UN Declaration on support for APRM and this number will continue to grow over and to energise and maintain the momentum of the implementation of NEPAD and the Cairo the next few years as the process unfolds. The fi rst the programme. President Mbeki serves on the Declaration. review report for Ghana has been concluded and HSGIC. The Heads of State and Government are the reports for Rwanda, Kenya and Mauritius are to supported by a Steering Committee of their personal The critical priority over the next three years will be fi nalised during 2006. The South African review representatives which is charged with discussing be to work with international partners to translate process is also due to be concluded during 2006. the strategic direction of the programme and the the political commitments into concrete and

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 11 practical delivery and action, particularly focusing faster and deeper departmental relief to heavily- politically stable despite challenges in the Democratic on financing for development. The strategic in-debted poor countries. Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zimbabwe. On the partnerships established present a unique set economic front, South Africa remains committed of opportunities through which the process of Important initiatives to generate support for the to the economic upliftment of the countries in this redefining the partnership paradigm and securing African Agenda are also being pursued through the: region. Due to the fact that events in this region concrete support for the implementation of have a direct impact on South Africa, there is a NEPAD can be pursued, including follow-up to New Asian-African Strategic Partnership need to ensure that the region enjoys stability and outcomes of the UN MDGs +5 Review Summit (NAASP), which was formalised at the Golden prosperity. in September 2005, the G8 Summit in July 2005 Jubilee Africa-Asia Summit in Indonesia in April in Gleneagles, Scotland and the WTO Ministerial 2005; A key imperative in the region remains successful Conference in Hong Kong at the end of 2005. India, Brazil, South Africa Dialogue Forum transition to peaceful political dispensations, The primary vehicle for follow-up is the Africa (IBSA) partnership; specifically in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Partnership Forum, an institutional mechanism Tokyo International Conference for Africa’s In the DRC, South Africa is extensively involved in established to facilitate a strategic dialogue Development (TICAD); efforts to assist the DRC on its road to peace and between Africa and developed countries of the Forum for China-Africa Co-operation (FOCAC); stability, including providing technical assistance North and multilateral institutions. and China; to the country’ electoral process to ensure holding Non-Aligned Movement (NAM); and of credible elections. Where requested, South Flowing from the Reports presented to the United The Second South Summit outcomes Africa will continue to provide what assistance it Nations and the G8 during 2005, it is recognised can towards the holding of elections in . that there is an urgent need to accelerate AFRICA BILATERAL In addition, post-conflict reconstruction and resource flows to Africa in order to assist Africa economic development remain a challenge in to achieve the MDGs. Therefore, the focus over South Africa conducts its bilateral relations with both countries. Meaningful economic and social the next three years will be on addressing the Africa largely through the 39 missions we have in development remain the best guarantee that the issue of accelerating and scaling up resource 37 countries in the continent. At the same time, 42 current transition processes will prove enduring. flows to Africa, particularly in terms of securing African countries are represented in South Africa. Through bilateral Agreements existing with both market access, including addressing the issue of countries, South Africa will continue to strive to trade-distorting subsidies, increasing Overseas SOUTHERN AFRICA contribute towards institutional capacity building, Development Assistance (ODA), promoting infrastructure development and trade and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), and providing Southern Africa remains relatively peaceful and investment promotion.

12 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 In Zimbabwe, political dialogue remains the key South Africa will continue to co-operate with its Minister of Defence Mosioua Lekota in challenge. Through its bilateral instruments as partners in Joint Commissions on Defence and discussion with the Sudanese Foreign Minister Osman Ismail Mustapha during a well as through African multilateral fora, South Security with Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe, State visit to Sudan. Africa will continue to encourage parties to find in pursuit of regional security, peace and lasting political solutions through all inclusive stability. dialogue, and will continue to seek opportunities to bring the opposing parties closer. An important focus of bilateral relations with Namibia will be the conclusion of negotiations Throughout the region, economic development regarding the Orange River Boundary and the will be pursued by advancing investment and establishment of a maritime boundary between trade. Economic bilateral instruments will serve South Africa and Namibia. The absence of a as a vehicle to consolidate and advance economic maritime boundary inhibits economic exploitation cooperation, inter alia with Namibia, of natural resources. and . In specifically, bankable projects will be identified and marketed Over the next three years, we also need to establish to possible investors in an effort to assist that a structured mechanism for engagement with country to graduate from its current Least Malawi. Developed Country status. Investment promotion and protection agreements will be pursued with EAST AFRICA countries in the region where such agreements are not yet in place. South Africa is committed to the realisation and promotion of democracy, peace and prosperity South Africa will, through negotiations, endeavour to in the East Africa region thus contributing to the conclude other outstanding agreements in various consolidation of the African Agenda. fi elds. Where agreements have been concluded, President Guebuza of Mozambique (left) is met by projects will be identifi ed in implementation of such South Africa continues to strengthen bilateral the Minister of Transport on arrival at Waterkloof air force base, Pretoria. agreements. relations with countries of the region. In addition to

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 13 the opening of three missions in Burundi, Comoros a bilateral arrangement for building capacity for the and continental efforts aimed at fi nding peaceful and Eritrea, structured bilateral relations with Southern Sudan government, thus contributing to and durable solutions to confl icts in this region. Kenya, Rwanda and Sudan are in process of being the implementation of the CPA. established. Preparations for the establishment of In Central Africa, the Department will co-ordinate the a consulate-general in Juba, Southern Sudan are The escalation of the crisis between Ethiopia and implementation of existing agreements with Gabon, under way. South Africa’s trade and investment in Eritrea is cause for concern. It is in the interest of the Republic of Congo and Equatorial Guinea. It is the region continue to show growth. both countries and the region that urgent steps be envisaged that legal frameworks on co-operation, taken to de-escalate the current tension that allows trade and other related fi elds will be fi nalised with South Africa’s peace efforts in Burundi have for progress toward the demarcation of the border Cameroon. The Department will continue to guide borne fruit with the holding of democratic election between them in accordance with the fi ndings of the implementation of co-operation projects with in 2005 in accordance with the Comprehensive the Boundary Demarcation Commission. It has Sao Tome and Principe. Power Sharing Agreement. South Africa remains become essential that the two countries engage in committed to assisting Burundi with its post confl ict a dialogue with the aim of normalising the relations As part of efforts to expand our diplomatic reach, a reconstruction and development efforts. between them. fully-fl edged diplomatic mission will be established in N’Djamena during the 2006/2007 fi nancial year. The implementation of the Comprehensive Peace The much-heralded Transitional Federal Government It is also envisaged that Honorary Consuls will be Agreement (CPA) in Sudan continues apace. The of Somalia (TFGS) has not delivered on the promise appointed in Bangui, the Central African Republic, Government of National Unity and the Government to returning that country on a path of peace, stability and in Douala, the commercial capital of the of Southern Sudan are in place. However, signifi cant and functioning state institutions. The TFGS should Republic of Cameroon. In addition, an offi cial will challenges remain in the path of lasting peace and be encouraged to return to the capital, launch the be placed in Sao Tome and Principe. unity in the country. The confl ict in Darfur continues vital process of national reconciliation and establish and has assumed a worrying spill-over effect, the necessary institutions of governance. South Africa will, as part of the international community which has led to a sharp rise in tension between assist the Central African Republic as it embarks Chad and Sudan. South Africa is working through CENTRAL AND WEST AFRICA upon a post-confl ict reconstruction phase. A general the African Union to assist the parties in Darfur to co-operation agreement will be signed with the CAR fi nd a lasting solution to the crisis. As part of its During 2006, South Africa will intensify its during 2006. South Africa will also continue to support contribution to the Sudanese peace process, South diplomatic activities with countries of Central and the efforts of the African Union (AU) and the Central Africa is leading the African Union’s Post-Confl ict West Africa by consolidating and expanding its African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) Reconstruction Committee. South Africa also has bilateral relations, and by supporting international to diffuse tensions between Chad and Sudan.

14 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 South Africa will continue to grow its formal mediation during 2005. Despite the widening expanded political dialogue as well as intensified relationship with states of the West African region by of the mediation effort to include a broader economic, trade and investment relations. Given extending its diplomatic reach into the sub-region. segment of the international community, South the fact that the countries of the region are in A new resident Mission has been established in Africa continues to play a pivotal role in the varying degrees of economic and socio-political Conakry (Guinea), with new Missions to follow in mediation effort, and its principal aim of holding transition, South Africa will intensify its political Ouagadougou (Burkina Faso) and Cotonou (Benin) an all-inclusive election by October 2006. The dialogue and economic interaction towards in early 2006. It is expected that further investigations stability of the Ivorian crisis is key in stabilising normalising and consolidating our bilateral and will be concluded during the 2006/2007 fi nancial year the immediate region bordering Côte d’Ivoire multilateral relations with the North African to prepare for the establishment of representations including the countries of the Mano River Union. countries concerned. These include: in Bissau (Guinea-Bissau) and Niamey (Niger). Post conflict reconstruction continues to be a • Alignment of existing bilateral agreements This coming year will see the launching of Joint major objective in the sub-region. South Africa, with service delivery objectives in order Commissions between South Africa and Senegal, through its power utility, , is working to implement viable projects beneficial to Ghana and Guinea - this in addition to a regular together with the Sierra Leonean SA and the respective countries in North session of a Commission meeting with Mali. One Authority to help reinvigorate the poor power Africa. of the largest structural bilateral relationships, the supply currently experienced in Freetown. In Bi-national Commission with the Federal Republic Liberia, South Africa will continue to assist the • Streamline the activities and programmes of Nigeria, will convene for the 7th time during new government of President Ellen Johnson of Binational Commissions (BNC’s) or Joint 2006. During this meeting efforts will continue Sirleaf as it faces the monumental challenges of Bilateral Commissions (JBC’s). to strengthen and expand relations over a broad rebuilding a shattered economy. South Africa has area of interstate co-operation while initiatives already assisted the Liberian authorities in their • Implement economic, trade and investment to improve the effectiveness of the structure will efforts to downsize and restructure of the Armed strategies towards greater commercial interaction continue. Forces of Liberia. with North Africa, especially in relation to BEE companies in the energy and goods and services The focus on conflict resolution remains a key NORTH AFRICA sectors. priority, with Côte d’Ivoire the most pressing case. South Africa has been directly involved In terms of SA’s bilateral and multilateral • Stimulate people to people interaction between in the mediation process since late 2004, with relations with individual countries of the region SA and countries in North Africa especially in President Mbeki leading the AU-mandated a solid international legal framework exists for culture, sport and tourism.

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 15 • Maintain strategic relations with Algeria in South Africa continues to support the United Nations Africa currently maintains 15 Embassies and High terms of bilateral and multilateral cooperation multilateral efforts to fi nd a peaceful and lasting Commissions; three Consulates-General and one especially in relation to the AU and NEPAD. resolution to the confl ict between the Saharawi Arab Liaison Offi ce in the region, while eighteen countries Democratic Republic and the Moroccan Kingdom as of this region maintain 30 diplomatic missions in • Intensify and coordinate international efforts contained in the Baker Plan, adopted by the United South Africa. with individual North African countries towards a Nations Security Council in Resolution 1495. peaceful solution of the Israel/Palestine confl ict. Bilateral trade with the region has increased In order to achieve the objectives of the UN Peace from less than R60 billion in 1999 to R164 billion • Seek alignment with countries in North Africa Plan, South Africa recognised the SADR on 15 for the period January to October 2005. Japan, on the priority issues of stability and security September 2004 and supports therefore, the Malaysia and Taiwan already rank among the and the reconstruction and development of the holding of a referendum providing an opportunity foremost sources of Foreign Direct Investment in African Continent. for the Saharawi people to exercise their right to South Africa. Major new investments from India self determination and independence. during the past 12 months are indicative of the • Broaden the bilateral, and multilateral dialogue fast-growing economic interaction between the between SA and North Africa through intensifi ed ASIA AND AUSTRALASIA two countries. The significance of China, as a high level exchanges. future source of investment, is expected to grow. Over the past two decades, rapid economic growth South Africa is diversifying and expanding its South Africa remains seized by the international issue in the People’s Republic of China, India and economic relations especially into those regions of the status of Western Sahara. South Africa also Southeast Asian countries has made Asia one of and markets where it has traditionally had less views the Western Sahara impasse as detrimental the most economically dynamic regions in the world. exposure in the past. to the NEPAD reconstruction and development This has created increasing levels of prosperity and strategy of the continent especially in relation to its has contributed to a tremendous sense of optimism In addition, South Africa is actively engaged with the stability and security as well as in terms of the Arab about Asia internationally. South Africa shares in region in a number of specialised fora, notably the Maghreb Union (AMU), which has remained dormant this optimism as it affords increasing trade and New Asian African Strategic Partnership (NAASP), for the past fi fteen years as a result of the confl ict. investment opportunities for South Africa. the India/Brazil/South Africa Dialogue Forum (IBSA), Within the multilateral context (UN, NAM, G77, and the Tokyo International Conference on African SADC) South Africa continues to highlight the plight South Africa’s relations with countries of Asia and Development (TICAD), the Forum on China-African of the Saharawi people and has contributed towards Australasia continue to strengthen both on the Co-operation (FOCAC) and the Indian Ocean Rim humanitarian and refugee assistance. political as well as the economic level. South Association for Regional Co-operation (IOR-ARC).

16 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 It remains vital to sharpen South Africa’s expertise the fi rst Joint Trade Committee Meeting was held and expand capacity throughout the Asian region with Vietnam in Pretoria in 2005. The fi rst Session to raise its trade and investment profi le. The of the Joint Commission between South Africa and Department will continue to build capacity to Indonesia is scheduled to take place in Jakarta maximise these opportunities and in this regard has during the fi rst half of 2006. created a new Sub-Directorate for Economic Affairs and Regional Organisations in the Asia and Middle Diplomatic relations between South Africa and East Branch to actively support the objectives of the South East Asian countries are also growing from Accelerated Shared Growth Initiative of South Africa strength to strength. Singapore upgrading its High (ASGISA) and to enhance South Africa’s economic Commission in South Africa by appointing a resident diplomacy efforts throughout Asia and the Middle High Commissioner in 2005 is evidence to this. South East region. Africa has also appointed a resident Ambassador in the Philippines as from March 2006. The year 2005 was a turbulent year for Asia Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Aziz Pahad especially in terms of natural disasters, starting South Africa considers Indonesia, with its population (right) sharing a lighter moment with his Indian counterpart Deputy Minister Anand Sharma, with the after-effects of the shattering Tsunami that of over two hundred and forty one million people and in Johannesburg. affected many countries and more recently the ranked the third most important in devastating earthquake that hit Pakistan and India Asia, as a very important role player in the ASEAN Diplomatic relations and the outbreak of bird-fl u in some countries. region. Indonesia views South Africa as the economic between South Africa hub of Southern Africa, constituting the gateway “ South East Asia to economic relations with the rest of the African and South East Asian continent. As strategic partners, South Africa intends South Africa’s relations with South East Asian to engage with Indonesia in political, economic and countries are also countries are growing rapidly. President Mbeki trade relations. Furthermore, both countries hold the growing from strength undertook visits to Singapore and Indonesia in April view that the relations between Southern African 2005. The Prime Minister of Malaysia and the Vice Developing Countries (SADC) and the Association to strength President of Indonesia also visited South Africa of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) should be in 2005. South Africa and Malaysia held their fi rst pursued more vigorously, in order to expand and Joint Ministerial Commission in Kuala Lumpur and consolidate ties between Africa and Asia.

” Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 17 The Asia-Africa Summit in 2005 resulted in view to realising the ideals of the Accelerated and minerals, steel and other non-ferrous metals. the launch of the New Asian African Strategic Shared Growth –South Africa (ASGISA) initiatives. The vast Indian market also holds much potential Partnership (NAASP), which is an accord aimed at for agricultural exports. A particularly important strengthening multilateralism economic growth and South Asia prospect for the deepening of relations with India is global peace and security. in closer co-operation in specialised fi elds like bio- India is by far South Africa’s most important political technology, ICT and agro-processing. The establishment of the NAASP marked a and trading partner in this region. Trade with India watershed in the development of relations between has increased substantially. Bilateral initiatives will The Minister of Public Service and Administration led Africa and Asia. As co-chairs, South Africa and be undertaken to maximise existing opportunities in a delegation to India from 14 to 18 November 2005 Indonesia have leading roles to play in taking this the automotive, engineering and fi nancial services, to discuss the possible recruitment of individuals process forward. The NAASP focuses on practical, ICT, HRD, bio-pharma and biotechnology sectors. with rare skills to take up positions in South achievable, and concrete ways of addressing Investment opportunities exist in the automotive, Africa. Similarly, a successful visit by the Minister the development of Asian and African countries. steel and jewellery manufacturing industries. The of Tourism and Environmental Affairs to India in Regional and sub-regional organisations will emphasis in bilateral relations lies on economic March, 2006 has under-pinned the importance continue to play a pivotal role as building blocks growth and job creation in South Africa and trade attached to India as the fastest growing source for Asia-Africa co-operation. The AU Commission and investment opportunities, particularly in of tourism to South Africa. These developments, serves as a co-ordinating focal point for the African pharmaceuticals, ICT, the fi lm industry, energy and together with the potential for increased trade and Regional Economic Communities (RECs) in this textiles (AGOA), are prime priorities. investment will provide fi rm support to the objectives process. These organisations will share best of the Accelerated and Shared Growth-South Africa practises and experiences in overcoming diffi culties The proposed Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) (ASGISA) initiative. in the political, economic, social and development to be negotiated with India provides an important fi elds. It is also through the NAASP that South- framework for closer co-operation between SACU In December 2005, the sixth session of the India- South Co-operation will be further strengthened. and India in the quest for mutually benefi cial trade South Africa Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) links. Bilateral trade between South Africa and India decided to set up two new sub-committees in Although there is some concern over the growing has increased from R907 million in 1994 to more view of the substantial potential for co-operation imbalance of trade with several ASEAN member than R14 billion in 2005. In 2005, South African between the two countries in these areas. These countries, over the last decade, trade has grown exports to India increased by 99% compared to the are the Sub-Committees on Communication and from R5.6 billion in 1994 to R25 billion in 2005. 2004. Growth in manufacturing in India could lead to Information Technology (ICT) and Human Resource Trade prospects in ASEAN will be pursued with a increase South African exports of capital equipment, Development.

18 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 On 31 January 2006 the Indian Government Historically South Africa and Sri Lanka have strong Africa is Australia’s biggest trading partner on the announced that an Airports Company of South people-to-people ties, due to the signifi cant numbers African continent. 50% of Australian exports to Africa Africa Consortium in partnership with India’s GVK constituting the Tamil community in South Africa. are earmarked for South Africa. Industries had been awarded the massive project of A Bilateral Partnership Forum was formed and in approximately R4 billion to modernise and upgrade its fi rst session in Colombo in 2005, science and South Africa is New Zealand’s primary market in sub- the Mumbai Airport. technology, education and culture were identifi ed as Saharan Africa. New Zealand Trade and Enterprise immediate areas of co-operation. A Micro Mission (NZTE) has representation in Johannesburg. A New The IBSA initiative holds signifi cant promise to was established in Colombo, Sri Lanka, in mid- Zealand-South Africa Business Council has been provide an infl uential platform for the developing January 2006 to further enhance opportunities for established in New Zealand to promote trade and world to prioritise egalitarian advancement, trade, investment and tourism. economic linkages with South Africa. The Prime technological co-operation and to counter global Minister of New Zealand visited South Africa in marginalisation of the poor nations. IBSA aims at Relations between South Africa and Bangladesh early 2006 to attend the Progressive Governance increasingly prioritising the entrance of developing are growing and the fi rst bilateral Senior Offi cials’ Summit. countries into the competitive world market by Meeting is scheduled to be held during the fi rst half forging stronger ties among themselves. of 2006 in Dhaka. A bilateral Trade Agreement is The focus of South Africa’s engagement with ready for signature. Australasia and the Pacifi c would be to develop Within the G-20, there is a signifi cant convergence economic links to their full potential. Areas of mutual of positions between India and South Africa on major A roving Ambassador, based in Pretoria, has been sectoral activity (RSA/Australia), which might at WTO matters, particularly regarding the Singapore accredited to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Maldives and fi rst glance suggest competitiveness, have been Issues and the Doha Round. Similarly, India is an Nepal, while diplomatic relations with Bhutan are developed into opportunities for joint ventures. The important role-player and partner within NAASP. still to be concluded. already existing political base of relations would be further enhanced to build more extensive and The Commonwealth’s lifting of Pakistan’s Australasia and the Pacifi c Islands mutually benefi cial relations. Practical steps would suspension in May 2004 paved the way for South include the opening of a Mission in Wellington Africa to consolidate relations. The fi rst Bilateral Australia is South Africa’s third largest trading partner set for 2007 and a revival of the Joint Ministerial Joint Commission between South Africa and in the region, after Japan and China (Including Commission between South Africa and Australia. Pakistan, which had to be postponed owing to the Taiwan & the Hong Kong SAR). Total trade for the earthquake disaster in 2005, is scheduled to take fi rst 10 months of 2005 amounted to R 13,825 billion, In terms of South – South Co-operation, the Pacifi c place in Islamabad in 2006. whilst in 2004, it amounted to R 14,405 billion. South Islands States have assumed a signifi cant spot on

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 19 South Africa’s foreign policy radar screen. A Roving South Africa is China’s key trade partner in Africa, South Africa’s largest trading partner in Asia, and Ambassador based in Pretoria has been accredited accounting for nearly 21 percent of the total volume fourth largest in the world. Total trade between to Fiji, Papua New Guinea and the Solomon of China-Africa trade. In 2005 South African exports South Africa and Japan reached approximately R56 Islands. amounted to nearly R8,7 billion, with imports billion, with South Africa enjoying a trade surplus reaching approximately R31billion. South African of more than R9 billion. Japan has approximately South Africa will consolidate its relations with the FDI into China amounted to about US$700 million, sixty (60) companies operating in South Africa, Pacifi c Islands through its recently established while Chinese FDI to South Africa amounted to the largest of which are in the automotive industry. mission in Suva, Republic of the Fiji Islands. There are nearly US$200 million. South Africa welcomed the increase in investments opportunities for South African investment in the island in the expansion of assembly plants for Toyota Motor states, especially in the fi eld of mining, as countries If one looks at trade between South Africa and the Corporation and Nissan Motor Corporation in South such as Papua New Guinea have important natural Greater China region (PRC, Hong Kong, Macau Africa. The decision of Toyota Tsusho Corporation resources, much of which is still unexplored. and Taiwan), South African exports amounted to and Toyota Boshoku to invest in the production R17, 6 billion, while South African imports from the of car seats and door panel trims in South Africa South Africa also intends to increase contact and region amounted to R39, 5 billion in 2005. will also be a boost to Japan’s investments in the co-operation with the Pacifi c Islands Forum. country. Activities in the chemical, mining and Although bilateral trade is increasing exponentially, diamond industry have improved over the last year. East Asia it amounts to only a very small percentage of both It has been agreed that a Joint Trade Committee China’s and South Africa’s international trade profi le, (JTC) will be launched at the South Africa – Japan South Africa’s relationship with China has, since the suggesting that there is still enormous potential for Partnership Forum. Japan has undertaken a study adoption of the “One China Policy” in 1998, actively an increased exchange of goods and services. into the possibility of establishing a FTA with South developed into a high-level engagement which is Africa. generally seen to be on a sound footing. South Africa severed diplomatic ties with Taiwan in 1997. The continuation of economic relations Japan’s economic policy toward African development In broad terms, the overarching objective of South with Taiwan ensures that South Africa has already is driven through the Tokyo International Conference Africa’s relationship with China can therefore be established itself in one of Greater China’s on African Development (TICAD) process, which characterised as the establishment of a strategic wealthiest regions. was commenced in 1993. Japan has identifi ed bilateral and multilateral partnership of equality, mutual South Africa as its most important strategic partner benefi t and co-operation. The immediate task is to Economic relations between South Africa and in Africa for working towards successful trilateral strengthen all round our relationship with China. Japan continue to expand. In 2005 Japan was co-operative projects, between South Africa, Japan

20 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 and other African countries. This is a concrete the countries of Central Asia still fi nd themselves opportunity for South Africa to assist in furthering in varying degrees of reconstruction, transformation the goals of the African Agenda and the objectives and regional integration in the political, economic of NEPAD. and social spheres. Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan (and to a limited degree Uzbekistan), Trade with the Republic of Korea is increasing possess vast reserves of natural resources and steadily with imports of high-tech goods such as fossil fuels, many of which remain untapped. Our motor vehicles and electronics increasing yearly. immediate task is to deepen engagement with this Samsung has recently opened offi ces in South region. Africa and it is hoped that other large South Korean conglomerates such as Samsung, LG and Hyundai MIDDLE EAST will also establish manufacturing plants in South Africa in the near future. South African relations with the countries of the Middle East continue to strengthen both on a political President Thabo Mbeki receiving the Central Asia as well as economic level. South Africa currently Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas during a state visit to South Africa. maintains 10 Embassies and 2 Consulates-General South Africa established diplomatic relations in in the region, whilst 13 of the 14 Middle East nations 1992 with Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, are represented in South Africa, the exception being Despite being Tajikistan, the Kyrgyz Republic and Azerbaijan. the Kingdom of Bahrain. It is foreseen that South geographically removed In 2003, South Africa established an Embassy in African representation will expand to include the “ Kazakhstan with a resident Ambassador appointed Republic of in the near future. from the region, South in 2005. The South African Ambassador to Turkey is Africa’s diplomatic accredited on a non-residential basis to the Kyrgyz Despite being geographically removed from the Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and region, South Africa’s diplomatic initiatives in the initiatives in the Middle Azerbaijan. Middle East Peace Process are well respected, East Peace Process are with the mainstay being the Presidential Peace Although this region offers at present a limited, Initiative. South Africa was also the only African well respected but growing market for South African goods and country to send an Observer Team to the January services, the potential remains largely untapped as 2006 Palestinian Legislative elections. South

” Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 21 African efforts to contribute to the creation of South African involvement, including billion dollar a whole, makes close interaction between the an environment in which a negotiated end to the direct investments, within the strategic economic region and the African continent inevitable. violence and the creation of two states will ensue, sectors in the Middle East is seeing a signifi cant will continue. increase. These sectors include petrochemicals, In advancing its interests in the region, South defence and telecommunications. Africa, however, acknowledges that the challenges South Africa also hosted the Palestinian President, posed by the continuing confl ict between Israel and Mr Mahmoud Abbas in March 2006 and has South African interests in the region are pursued for Palestine, as well as the increasing international made it known that interaction with Hamas as the the following reasons: tension surrounding the Iranian nuclear programme, democratically elected Government of Palestine will has the potential to affect South Africa directly. form part of its efforts to contribute to the creation • Energy security: More than 70% of South African of an environment in which a negotiated end to the crude oil imports originate in the Middle East, in Through the excellent diplomatic relations that exist violence and the creation of two states will ensue. particular from the Islamic Republic of Iran and with the region, South Africa will continue to pursue the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia the establishment of a Palestinian State existing side South Africa’s principled position within the Board • It represents a major market for South African by side, in peace with Israel within internationally of Governors of the International Atomic Energy products and technology. Bilateral trade with recognised borders, non-proliferation of nuclear Agency has contributed to multilateral efforts to the region has increased from R5 billion in 1994 weapons and the use of nuclear technology for ensure that Iran complies with its commitments to R45 billion in 2005. peaceful purposes. under the NPT. South Africa maintains that only • The region, bolstered by a signifi cant increase in through continued negotiations can a solution to liquidity due to the high oil price will become an Gulf States the current situation be found. increasingly important source for foreign direct investment. The relationship with the Gulf has grown to one The strategic signifi cance of the region for South • The region’s cultural and religious signifi cance characterised by strong and growing economic Africa remains economic. The Middle East remain very important for millions of South ties. remains the primary origin of South African crude Africans who recognises it as the origin of the oil, accounting for more than 80% of total imports. three major monotheistic religions Gulf economies are dominated by the oil, gas and Current high oil prices with the accompanying • The socio-political affi nity between the Middle petrochemical industries, which present South Africa availability of excess funds in the region has also East region and North Africa as well as the role with unique opportunities. The lack of diversifi cation prompted an increase in South African efforts to played by Middle East based Islamic cultural and in these economies has resulted in them becoming source foreign direct investment in the region. economic institutions on the African continent as net importers on non-oil goods and therefore a

22 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 lucrative market for South African companies. High JBC with Iran will be held in South Africa in May both Israel and Palestine; sharing the South African crude oil prices over recent years have contributed 2006. South Africa is also pursuing similar structured experience with a wide cross-section of Israeli and to an economic boom in the Gulf region, which relationships with several other Gulf countries. Palestinian civil society and government; assisting manifested in increased spending on infrastructure the Palestinian reform process and supporting and other projects. Several South African companies The Levant international peace efforts, in particular through the doing business in the region, notably in the United UN system. Arab Emirates, have benefi ted in this regard. Kuwaiti The South African government is of the view that and Saudi Arabian companies in return have made the only way to bring about peace in the Middle Three significant events during 2005 contributed signifi cant investments in South Africa. East is to have a comprehensive and unconditional to the democratisation process in Iraq and the negotiated settlement to end the occupation of the constitutional restoration of Iraq’s sovereignty. The economic opportunities presented by the Gulf Palestinian and Syrian territories. The government These events were the election of a Transitional countries have drawn several thousand South maintains that both Israel and Palestine have a Government in January 2005, the adoption of African nationals to the region where they occupy possibility and responsibility to work together in Iraq’s new Constitution in a referendum held in positions in a variety of sectors, including project order to create the conditions for the resolution and October 2005 and the national elections for the managers of some of the most prestigious building prevention of confl ict in the region. Council of Representatives that took place in contracts in the area. Most of these South Africans December 2005. The expected outcome is the serve on a contract basis and repatriate a signifi cant The Palestine Legislative Elections held in January selection of a four year government, sum of their earnings back to South Africa. 2006 have marked an important milestone in the and restoration of sovereignty during the first half process aimed at the realisation of an independent of 2006. Some 18,000 South African nationals travel to Saudi Palestine co-existing side by side with Israel in Arabia every year to perform Hajj or Umrah. conditions of peace and mutually benefi cial co- These developments took place amidst ongoing operation. The South African Government has urged political and sectarian violence in that country. South Africa has established joint bilateral the PLO and Hamas to ensure that the transition in commissions with the two major powers in the Gulf government proceeds swiftly and smoothly. South Africa, in principle, supports the region – Iran and Saudi Arabia – which allows for constitutional and democratic efforts to restore matters of bilateral and multilateral concern to be The key strategic engagement of South Africa with peace, sovereignty and prosperity to the Iraqi addressed at a ministerial level on an annual basis. the Middle East Confl ict, as clearly shown by the people. Opportunities to explore participating in The second JBC with Saudi Arabia, is scheduled to Spier Presidential Peace Retreat of January 2002, reconstruction and rebuilding efforts in Iraq, have take place in Riyadh in March 2006, while the ninth remains the strengthening of the “peace camps” in regrettably been undermined by the continuing

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 23 insecurity and instability. South Africa has LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN nevertheless been able to contribute in a concrete way to the restoration of Iraq by contributing The social challenges in Latin America have, in South Africa has financially to capacity building programmes for recent times, resulted in governments with a more trauma relief under the auspices of the Iraqi Red centre-left agenda being elected. This has created “gained experience in the Crescent. During a visit in by the Iraqi Deputy opportunities for co-operation in areas of social development of poverty Foreign Minister, Mr Talib Hamid Al Bayati in upliftment. South Africa has gained experience in October 2005, the South African Government the development of poverty alleviation programmes, alleviation programmes, reiterated its intent to be represented in Baghdad which can be utilised to assist and thus enhance which can be utilised as soon as possible. President Thabo Mbeki relations with like-minded countries in Latin America was amongst the leaders to host an and the Caribbean. to assist... countries Iraqi parliamentary delegation in March 2006. in Latin America and The delegation included representatives from Leadership in both regions share a further common the Sunni, Shiite and Kurdish factions. agenda through their historical experiences gained the Caribbean in social-orientated mass movements. These Overall our task in the Middle East would be movements express commitment to a people- to promote peace, contribute to resolving the centred agenda that creates additional opportunities ” Palestine/Israel confl ict, ensure non-proliferation to share common experiences. The move to the of Weapons of Mass Destruction based on the centre-left has further resulted in a shift in the NPT, and to strengthen political and economic and power balance and has resulted in the previously bilateral relations. marginalised being able to inform the development agenda. THE AMERICAS The extent of our co-operation is a refl ection of South Africa conducts its bilateral relations with the the continuing broad-based engagement between

Americas largely through the 16 missions we have South Africa and Latin America. This is in accordance Minister of Foreign Affairs in 11 countries in the continents. At the same time, with one of our key foreign policy strategic priorities, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma and her Cuban Counterpart Minister Felipe Perez Roque 14 countries from the Americas are represented namely South-South Co-operation, with the mission during the IV Session of the Joint SA-Cuba in South Africa. of promoting South Africa’s national interest and Consultative Mechanism, in Cape Town.

24 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 values, the African Renaissance and the creation of kept in mind that the scope of NEPAD would be indicate that Latin America countries are still a better world for all. limited in some of these countries. grappling with defi ning the nature of their policies that need to be applied in transforming their South Africa, together with Latin America and the Through progressive governance, South Africa societies. Governments in Latin America have been Caribbean, share a strategic need to create a more must ensure that the state regains its development- elected in response to vastly different factors. The equitable world order which balances the impact of enducing role and maintains its function as a centre –left policies of Brazil, Chile and Argentina globalisation. The approach South Africa and key source of public policies, geared to promoting are vastly different from Cuba and Venezuela. countries from the region take in pursuing similar fundamental social rights and collective welfare. The high level of inequality ultimately means that global agendas, needs to be co-ordinated in order Unemployment, poverty, migration, demographic success will be defi ned by improving the life of the to serve the interests of developing countries. The and environmental imbalances are problems that marginalised in society. pursuit of this objective entails a more regular and require responsible socio-economic policies and united engagement with multilateral institutions actions. The mediation between economic and In this regard, South Africa is well placed due such as the WTO, the United Nations, and the social policies can only be undertaken effectively to its own experience in playing a leading role Bretton Woods Institutions. by states that are democratic, transparent and in infl uencing the socio-economic policies, that under social oversight. balance social needs with responsible economic The focus will also be to co-operate on and political paradigms. Engaging with like-minded achieving the UN Millenium Development South African and Latin American economies share countries such Brazil and Chile, could serve as Goals (MDGs) in order to urgently accelerate many similarities, requiring a strategic approach powerful alliances in informing developments in resource flows to Africa and other developing from South African exporters. Furthermore, in order Latin America. countries, particularly in terms of securing to increase exports, obstacles such as tariff and non- market access. This includes addressing the tariff barriers in Latin American countries need to The need to maintain stability in Latin America and issue of inequitable subsidies, increasing be identifi ed in order to increase market access for the Caribbean by catering for all sectors of society Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) and South African products. This is of prime importance will be imperative. South Africa is being presented promoting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). In in promoting a balanced economic relationship. Co- with a unique opportunity to engage with countries this regard, special emphasis should be placed operating with private sector institutions in promoting in Latin America and the Caribbean. Assuming an on how South Africa and the rest of the African market opportunities in Latin America also becomes orderly election outcome and a stable environment, continent engage with the countries of Latin imperative. the transformation of a country like Haiti will become America in promoting the ideals of the Continent crucial. Furthermore, the South African experience and the African Diaspora. However, it should be The different strands of centre-left governments for reconciliation can be shared.

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 25 South Africa can, through the consolidation of its wealthy G8 country with a stated commitment Emphasis is placed on identifying additional areas relations with countries in Latin America and the towards assisting with development in Africa and to achieve enhanced capacity, as well as the Caribbean, promote its foreign policy agenda, the developing world in general. To this end it creation of the necessary mechanisms to facilitate especially on the multilateral front. South Africa’s would be important to maintain South Africa’s good the implementation of such ability throughout present relations with Brazil and the ongoing relations with the new Conservative government. Africa. Support for the NEPAD within the USA initiatives to build relations with Argentina and In particular, Canada has a reservoir of skills and Administration, Congress and the business sector, countries in the Caribbean provide South Africa expertise, including in the South African expatriate with particular focus on the implementation of with an opportunity to infl uence the global agenda. community, which could be harnessed for the infrastructure development projects, remains a high benefi t of ASGISA and SA. priority and South Africa seeks to achieve the start of In building closer relations with Latin America and the implementation phase of these projects. South the Caribbean, the challenge remains for South Although there are no indications that relations Africa will focus on addressing US business sector Africa to ensure a balance between its economic with South Africa will be adversely affected by the concerns regarding BEE implementation, as well and political relationship. Therefore, South Africa’s change of government, it is nonetheless important as the improvement of investment fl ows to South business interests need to be promoted in order to to engage the minority government of Prime Minister Africa. The building of local capacity for research rectify the trade imbalance that presently exists in Stephen Harper with a view to securing Canada’s and effective delivery in the continuing battle against favour of many Latin American countries. continued commitment to the African Continent and communicable diseases through the US Presidential the Developing World in general. Emergency Programme for AIDS (PEPFAR) that USA & CANADA has committed USD 2.8 billion for Financial Year South Africa has, in the past two years, been the 2005, will receive augmented attention. The SACU/ The USA has been the largest single foreign top recipient of development assistance from US Free Trade Agreement (FTA) negotiations investor in the South African economy since amongst the 27 African countries supported by are important both in the context of encouraging 1994, one of the largest single country trading the USA Agency for International Development US support for economic development and co- partner, as well as the largest donor of offi cial (USAID). On the front, South Africa and the operation, and supporting the implementation of development assistance. Through its interactions USA will continue co-operating regarding military NEPAD. The negotiations have the potential to with South Africa and its partners in this region, medicine research within the PHIDISA programme improve trade fl ows signifi cantly between the SACU the US continues to support the implementation and the African Contingency Operations Training region and the US and to contribute to regional of NEPAD; regional peace, security and stability Assistance programme (ACOTA), which is aimed economic growth and stability. Certain problematic initiatives; and economic development and co- at enhancing South Africa’s peacekeeping and areas have arisen that have delayed the process, operation. Its northern neighbour, Canada, is a humanitarian assistance intervention capabilities. but co-operation efforts at high-level have ensured

26 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 that the negotiation process will continue and South and Technology relations, especially in terms of the - Consolidate South Africa’s international position Africa aims to conclude the agreement. Presidential policy objective of establishing South in deep space research through joint ventures Africa as key player in international astronomy with the Russian Federation. EUROPE and deep space research, also characterises the relationship. Bilateral relations between South Africa and South Africa conducts its bilateral relations with Turkey have recently grown exponentially Europe largely through the 25 missions we have Bilateral trade relations remain essentially and the official visit of Turkish Prime Minister in 23 countries in the continent. At the same time, underdeveloped between South Africa and Russia. Recep Tayyip Erdogan in March 2005 illustrated 36 countries from Europe are represented South Africa’s multinationals are active in Moscow the growing economic importance of South in South Africa. with substantive investment in the minerals, mining, Africa/Turkey relations. Two successful South banking, alcohol beverage and hospitality sectors. African/Turkish business summits and exchange EASTERN EUROPE Challenges remain, however, in expanding bilateral visits contributed to bilateral trade during 2005 trade, especially South African exports to the totalling over eight billion Rand. The conclusion, The Russian Federation is considered by the South Russian Federation, in enhancing closer contact during Prime Minister Erdogan’s official visit, African Government to be a strategic partner. It and co-operation in health, education, sports, arts of Agreements on Trade and Economic Co- should be kept in mind that Russia is a G8 member and culture, tourism, business and civil society. operation, Customs and Double Taxation, is as well as a permanent member of the UNSC. South expected to contribute to stronger growth in Africa’s relations with Russia were signifi cantly The strategic focus in SA/Russia relations will centre trade, and economic relations between the two consolidated over the past year through continued on expanding and consolidating in the following countries. high level political dialogue. Bilateral relations areas: also expanded strongly under the umbrella of the During 2005, intensifi ed political dialogue between Intergovernmental Trade and Economic Committee - High-level consultations in the Task Team on South Africa and Turkey created the opportunity at (ITEC). Minerals and Energy; the strategic level to identify key dimensions of the - Fostering closer links between BEE entities and bilateral relationship in the following areas in the It is important for South Africa to expand its co- the Russian Federation and its Provinces; medium-term strategic framework: operation with Russia in the strategic minerals and - Engaging targeted Russian provinces towards energy sectors. To this end, and aimed at supporting increased SA exports in specifi c sectors; - To expand the economic, trade and investment BEE objectives, a joint Task Force on Minerals was - Promoting bilateral tourism and cultural ties relationship substantially, including the sectors, established. Solid progress in the fi eld of Science between the two countries; and minerals and energy (PBMR);

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 27 - To expand bilateral tourism and cultural South Africa’s political and economic relations with emphasis on developing programmes of co- relations; these countries, as they will, as EU members, operation in this area will receive priority attention. - To consolidate the political relationship and become, on the one hand, competitors in terms of secure support for South Africa’s United Nations aid, but also allies in terms Poland is generally seen as a strong role player in Security Council candidature; of their level of development, which is, at this stage, the Central European region. As the biggest of the - To facilitate the implementation of Turkey’s Africa closer to that of South Africa than to most of the new EU members (both in size, GDP and population) Plan and support for Africa’s Peace and Security current EU members. This dichotomy presents Poland is destined to play a leading role in future. Agenda through enhanced Turkish contribution both challenges and opportunities to South Africa Its role in ensuring a more equitable distribution to confl ict resolution and peacekeeping on the in the design of its foreign relations with this new from the EU budget to the newly joined members is continent; and, reality during the next fi ve to ten years. a case in point. Hungary and the Czech Republic - To enhance Turkish involvement in NEPAD are also important players in the region and bilateral reconstruction and development projects. In order to meet the challenges and take full trade as well as co-operation in the fi eld of science advantage of the opportunities created by the and technology will have to receive attention. This In addition to the above, a need was identifi ed to scenario sketched above, it will be imperative is also applicable to a lesser extent to the remaining deepen the broader political relationship between to maintain and further strengthen political and countries in the region, which are either members South Africa and Turkey through high level visits economic ties with these countries. In this regard, of the EU or destined to become members in the and exchanges, to normalise the bilateral defence the focus will be on a concerted effort to develop foreseeable future. relationship, to consolidate joint South African/ the element of economic diplomacy in specifi cally Turkish industrial co-operation, and to promote direct the Republics of Poland, Hungary and the Czech WESTERN EUROPE investments including BEE/Turkish Partnerships in Republic. The primary effort will be to engage South the South African jewellery and leather industries. African business to take cognisance of business Political relations with Western Europe remain opportunities in these countries and to participate sound, and a reservoir of goodwill continues to CENTRAL EUROPE actively in fairs and exhibitions, inter alia those exist towards South Africa. There has been a slow- organised by South African diplomatic Missions in down in economic performance in Europe and the The accession in May 2004 of fi ve Central these countries. Similarly, the Department plans EU enlargement impacts negatively on the extent European countries (Czech Republic, Hungary, to organise visits by SA business groups to these of development funding from Europe available for Poland, Slovak Republic and Slovenia) and three countries to explore business opportunities. A South Africa and for Africa in general. Baltic countries (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania) to number of countries in the region play an important the is expected to further infl uence role in the fi eld of science and technology and In an effort to enhance relations with Western Europe,

28 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 priority will be given to the Africa Agenda through German-Speaking and Nordic Countries have Minister of Foreign Affairs BNCs, working groups, consultations and high level a strong commitment towards SADC and its Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma hosted the Russian Minister Yuri Trutnev in preparation visits. The region’s policies towards Africa and their programmes, which includes development co- for ITEC 2, in Pretoria. contributions towards the continent bilaterally and operation both bilaterally and through the EU. through the EU and G8 are positive and focussed. Most countries in the region are engaged in joint The strong political support for the AU, especially projects with SADC regarding small arms and anti- as far as confl ict prevention/resolution in Africa is personnel mines and capacity building. A number concerned, should be concretized through realistic of agreements have been concluded, which will proposals for joint initiatives such as political and provide the framework for further co-operation. fi nancial support for peace processes. Trilateral co-operation between SADC and German- Speaking and Nordic Countries will be promoted Growing tourism and the growing view of South to broaden joint development assistance into the Africa as being a safe destination, and increasing region. trade and economic engagement, provide increased opportunities for interaction, and is testimony to From July 2006 to June 2007, Finland and Germany largely positive perceptions. will be holding the EU Presidency consecutively. Pre-emptive consultations will be held to ensure GERMAN-SPEAKING & NORDIC convergence on need for EU and Africa co-operation. COUNTRIES Germany has indicated that it would invite African representatives to the G8 Summit scheduled to Notwithstanding elections in Norway and Germany, take place in Germany in 2007 and this invitation which have shown shifts to the centre-right, it is should be nurtured and secured. The objective of not anticipated that Western Europe’s foreign our engagement with the G8 is to maintain their policy approach towards South Africa will change commitment of the Millenium Development Goals. signifi cantly. The good relations between German- Minister of Finance and the Speaking and Nordic Countries and South Africa Regarding economic diplomacy, lack of Netherlands Minister of Foreign Affairs Bernard Bot present vast opportunities and the new governments signing an agreement on the avoidance of double understanding of the concept of BEE has been taxation, in Pretoria. should be engaged to secure continued co-operation identifi ed as a challenge. Roadshows and and improved trade and investments. workshops will be utilised to familiarise foreign

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 29 business with the imperatives and opportunities. the bilateral areas of relations with particular focus on promotion of economic diplomacy in UK, Ireland The size of the German-speaking and Nordic enhancing economic diplomacy, tourism and capacity and the Benelux. A particular priority in 2006 markets remains a major opportunity. There is building. The intention is to use the opportunities will be Consolidation of the African Agenda. The room for further growth in South African exports, in provided by the maturation in relations to leverage Department will work closely with: line with the long-term trends. Specifi c goods and South Africa’s current priorities of accelerated growth, services will be identifi ed to be targeted in these job creation and skill development. The UK on taking forward the far-reaching countries. The fi nalisation of the European Free commitments agreed to at Gleneagles; Trade Agreement (EFTA) provides a mechanism Secondly, attention will be focused on ensuring that With the Netherlands by continuing and expanding for improved trade relations with Switzerland, the policy convergence between Europe and Africa trilateral co-operation on peace and security in Iceland and Norway. Germany’s willingness and translate into concrete projects and programmes Africa; full co-operation to share its experience in hosting for Africa’s development. Particular attention will be With Belgium in support of the 2006 elections as the FIFA Soccer World Cup in 2006 will be utilised. paid to advancing the institutions and programmes well as continued reconstruction in the DRC; and of the African Union, building the capacity of AU With regard to Ireland, the focus will be on promoting MEDITERRANEAN EUROPE structures and implementing the commitments of political and economic relations, specifi cally to draw EU member countries, made either at the EU or at on Ireland’s expertise in the area of housing as well Relations with the countries of the Mediterranean Europe the G8, including ODA commitments, debt relief, as developing a successful knowledge economy. region have undergone signifi cant growth in recent years, Financing for Development and building African with interaction cutting across the spectrum of bilateral capacity for peacebuilding initiatives. SA-EU RELATIONS relations. More signifi cantly, this expansion and growth has been mirrored in, and infl uenced by, the burgeoning Thirdly, countries of the Mediterranean region The European Union (EU) remains South relations between Africa and the European Union. exert signifi cant infl uence on the global agenda. Africa’s largest single trading partner, its Developments such as the new EU Strategy for Africa, This presents an opportunity to build alliances main source of foreign direct investment, the maturation of security co-operation and the growing to advance the agenda of the South, to reform and its largest donor of official development realisation of the interdependence of our respective international institutions and to infl uence the process aid. South Africa will, during 2006, continue regions have created new stimulus and opportunities on of transforming the global fi nancial architecture. having regular high-level meetings with a scale not experienced thus far. European Commissioners and the EU’s High UK, IRELAND AND BENELUX Representative for Common Foreign and The Department will employ a three track approach to Security Policy, especially with regards to the relations: fi rstly, attention will be focussed on deepening The Department will continue its focus on the EU’s new Strategy for Africa.

30 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 In terms of the comprehensive Trade, Development already playing a leading role in creating awareness In addition, South Africa will also assist in and Co-operation Agreement (TDCA), South Africa is and forging solidarity amongst developing nations initiating projects that could be funded from the actively overseeing the 1st fi ve-year review of the TDCA that will be severely affected by REACH. European Development Fund (EDF) as it did and will fi nalise it by November 2006 when the third with the Africa Peace Facility. The EDF, the aid SA-EU Ministerial Joint Co-operation Council (JCC) is In the coming period, attention will also be paid to fund designed to support development in ACP scheduled to take place. All stakeholders and national how to further broaden and deepen the relationship countries, has grown to about 24 billion Euro. departments are involved in this process, overseen by between South Africa and the EU. The Department will facilitate participation by the Department of Foreign Affairs. South Africa is also South African Parliamentarians in the ACP/EU co-ordinating the full implementation of the TDCA, to ACP-EU RELATIONS Joint Parliamentary Assembly scheduled for ensure that it takes advantage of all new areas of co- July in Austria and November in Barbados. It operation, kept in abeyance prior to full ratifi cation of South Africa will, during 2006, continue to participate will assist with South African participation in the the TDCA. South Africa will also engage SA business in the negotiations for the Economic Partnership ACP Consultative Assembly meetings, the ACP and the ten new EU Member States to take advantage Agreements (EPAs) that are currently taking place Council of Ministers and the ACP Summit in of the opportunities created by the TDCA. between the ACP and the EU, and will share its December 2006. All these activities are aimed expertise in trade negotiations, especially with at reinforcing South-South co-operation and In the coming year, South Africa will also continue SADC. The non-reciprocal trade arrangement, supporting the implementation of the African to engage the EU to ensure that the country’s which the ACP enjoyed under the Lome Convention, Agenda. Developments within the ACP-EU Joint objectives are promoted within the multilateral will be replaced by a WTO-compatible regime in the Parliamentary Assembly that have implications context, especially with regards to , Economic Partnership Agreements. South Africa for the South African and Pan-African Parliaments weapons of mass destruction, migration, the will also assist ACP countries in the implementation will be monitored. South Africa will also monitor Millenium Development Goals, the Middle East of the new areas of co-operation which have any developments within the ACP that could Peace Process and UN Reform. been introduced under the revised Cotonou jeopardise the objectives of the African Agenda. Partnership Agreement, such as compliance with South Africa will, in addition to the above, increasingly the provisions of the International Criminal Court, In collaboration with inter alia the Departments lobby the EU on adapting REACH (Registration, elimination of weapons of mass destruction and of Trade and Industry, Minerals and Energy, Evaluation and Authorisation of Chemicals), the fi ght against terrorism. The provisions of the and the SARS, South Africa will contribute to the EU’s new environmental legislation that is Cotonou Partnership Agreement have to be in line programmes aimed at institution building in ACP essentially aimed at protecting the health and living with individual countries’ national legislation and countries and in Africa. environment of European citizens. South Africa is international agreements.

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 31 SOUTH AFRICA’S MULTILATERAL that the objective of a just and non-discriminatory INTERESTS international economic and social order remains elusive. The impact of globalisation continues to South Africa’s participation in international fora, be uneven, resulting in severe global economic notably the United Nations (UN) system and its and social inequalities. International economic specialized agencies, is in response to the challenges relations also continue to be marked by uncertainty that are central to the future of all of humanity and and imbalances, resulting in the continued that pose a threat to global political and economic marginalization of developing countries. stability and security. It aims at not allowing the development agenda to be dominated by security In response South Africa continues to host, concerns and to keep on reminding the world of the and actively participate in, major international urgent need to eradicate poverty. Through South conferences. Where it contributes substantively African participation in the multilateral fora it also to addressing issues facing Africa and developing defends the belief that resolution of international countries further afi eld. Such issues include, amongst others, underdevelopment, poverty, President Thabo Mbeki and confl icts should be peaceful and should bear in mind United Nations Secretary-General, the centrality of the UN Charter and international law. racism, the advancement of women, equitable Kofi Annan addressing the media during the latter’s visit to Cape Town. South Africa thus fi rmly believes that multilateralism trade practices, social development, sustainable is critical to the survival of humankind. South Africa environmental utilisation and migration as well as further believes that the current reform process the role of multilateral fora to develop coherent and should result in an effi cient United Nations system sustainable policies in this regard. South Africa South Africa was which should respond to the needs of all member believes that developing countries must reaffi rm the central relevance of the outcomes of the UN “elected to Chair the states with no-one superior or inferior. conferences and summits such as the World G77 for 2006 South Africa’s foreign policy furthermore Conference Against Racism, Racial Discrimination, recognises that in order to achieve a better life for Xenophobia and Related Intolerances, the Finance all, development must be pursued from a global for Development conference (FfD), World Food perspective. As such, South Africa is committed to Summit, Beijing +10, World Summit on Social the development of Africa, and all other developing Development, World Summit on Sustainable ” countries. Concurrently, it is increasingly clear Development (WSSD), the Millennium Summit

32 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 and the 2005 World Summit. The internationally- developing countries in a variety of UN Bodies. In to substantially accelerate progress being made. agreed development goals (IDGs) and Millennium the current global environment South Africa is at the There is an urgent need to scale up action on the part Development Goals (MDGs) agreed upon at these same time faced with very high expectations, both of all parties, including African Governments, donor meetings continue to be of the highest importance from within as well as outside of the Group. Governments and agencies and the international for developing countries. fi nancial organisations. It is also recognised that 2005 World Summit the IDGs and the MDGs will not be met unless the South Africa thus believes that it must act without goals and objectives of the Beijing Declaration and fail to reinforce South-South co-operation and act The 2005 World Summit reviewed progress with Platform of Action and the outcome of the twenty- together with groups such as the Africa Union (AU), the implementation of the Millennium Declaration, third special session of the General Assembly Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the Group of 77 including the development goals contained therein. (Beijing+10) are fully implemented. (G77) and China to negotiate global agreements The outcome of the 2005 Millennium World Summit with the North. These groups of the South was disappointing in that little progress was made UN Reform provide a platform for the countries of the South to on the promotion of the development agenda of articulate and promote their collective interests and the UN. One signifi cant positive outcome of the The adoption by Heads of State and Government enhance their joint negotiating capacity on all major Summit was the universal acceptance of the MDGs of the 2005 World Summit Outcome in September international economic and development issues in as benchmark measures of progress towards 2005 set in motion a number of reforms in the UN the United Nations system. development. However, the Summit failed to meet system that include: earlier expectations that a realisable, pro-active plan South Africa was elected to Chair the G77 for 2006. for an international partnership for the achievement - The establishment of a Peacebuilding The G77’s aim is to promote South-South co-operation of the MDGs would be forthcoming. Commission; and help to strengthen economic and technical co- - The establishment of a Human Rights Council; operation among developing countries themselves. The Summit clearly demonstrated that the - Implementing management reforms in the UN Additionally, the importance for developing countries implementation of the internationally-agreed Secretariat; of the need to co-ordinate common positions development goals (IDGs), including the MDGs, - Reviewing the mandates of UN activities and among themselves on global issues is increasingly would not be achieved in Sub-Saharan Africa, programmes; being recognised in a globalised environment. unless there was a dramatic increase in resource - Finalising the comprehensive convention against South Africa’s chairpersonship therefore affords the fl ows as a matter of urgency. Achievement of terrorism; country a further opportunity to assume a leading the MDGs by Africa will require rising above - Maintaining and strengthening political role in representing and promoting the interests of current inadequate responses and taking action momentum for development; and

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 33 - Establishing new functions for the Economic related to the implementation of the 2005 World continues to be a major and infl uential player in the and Social Council (ECOSOC). Summit Outcome. It will continue to do so during development of international human rights law. South 2006 in order to bring these reforms to a fruitful Africa is part of the leading countries at the United The implementation of the 2005 World Summit conclusion. As Chairperson of the G77 in 2006, Nations who continually evaluate the effectiveness Outcome commenced and continued during the South Africa will not only continue to be engaged of the existing human rights treaties and propose main part of the 60th Session of the UN General in the implementation of the 2005 World Summit additional instruments in a norm and standard setting Assembly (UNGA60) from October to December Outcome, but will also be the lead negotiator on process with the view to updating and strengthening 2005. Priority was given to a number of reform behalf of the G77 on a number of reform elements. such treaties. South Africa has, in conjunction with issues, as mandated by the Summit, such as the members of the African Union, been actively involved establishment of the Peacebuilding Commission The 2005 World Summit Outcome further reaffi rmed in the elaboration of human rights instruments. and the Human Rights Council. that and the promotion and protection of the full enjoyment of all human rights South Africa therefore continues to reaffi rm its Member States were able to reach agreement on and fundamental freedoms for all are essential commitment to the protection of human rights and the establishment of the Peacebuilding Commission elements in advancing development, peace and fundamental freedoms as agreed in the Universal before the deadline set by the World Summit of security. Consequently South Africa will utilise Declaration of Human Rights, the International 31 December 2005. Progress was also made its leadership role in the G77 to advance reform Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights on the implementation of certain management initiatives of the United Nations predicated on three (ICESCR), the International Covenant on Civil reforms in the UN Secretariat. The other issues, pillars: development, security and human rights. and Political Rights (ICCPR) and the 2005 World however, require further attention during 2006. Summit Outcome. South Africa is striving for the The comprehensive reform of the United Nations Human Rights strengthening of the mechanism for the protection Security Council also remains work in progress. of, as well as the acknowledgement of, economic, The President of the 60th Session of the General The preamble of the UN Charter includes human social and cultural rights on par with all other Assembly, Mr Jan Eliasson (Sweden), has thus rights among the purposes for which the UN was human rights, including the right to development. given notice to UN Member States that he intends established: “to reaffi rm faith in fundamental human taking action on this issue during UNGA60, as rights, in the dignity and worth of the human person, in In fulfi lment of the principal objective of consolidating provided for in the Summit Outcome. the equal rights of men and women and of nations large the African Agenda, South Africa continues to play a and small”. Owing to our political history of centuries pivotal role in the deliberations of the African Group During the main part of UNGA60 South Africa of racial domination and oppression until the advent in the context of the UN Commission on Human supported and actively participated in all negotiations of democracy in South Africa in 1994, South Africa Rights (UNCHR) and the UN General Assembly, to

34 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 advance the interests of the African Union and its World Summit on Social Development includes work security, South Africa will also continue to promote organs. This includes the objectives of NEPAD, with on the three pillars of social integration, poverty the importance of ensuring that non-proliferation respect to the promotion and protection of human eradication and full employment. The MDGs, which controls do not become the means whereby rights, democracy and good governance within the seek to accelerate social development and which developing countries are denied access to advanced UN system. South Africa is committed to creating focus on a range of social issues, are thus regarded technologies required for their development. a world fi t for future generations, which takes into as key focus areas. Current focus areas include the preparations for the account the best interests of the child. 2006 Certain Conventional Weapons Convention With respect to the African Continent, the (CCW) Review Conference. Economic and Social Development introduction of a focus on the social dimensions of NEPAD provided an opportunity to elaborate on the South Africa will base its participation at the various Through participating in international fora and challenges facing the Continent including poverty, Review Conferences on the need for a balanced multilateral organisations, one of South Africa’s health, especially HIV and Aids, and other review of the respective international instruments, objectives is to advance active follow-up to the communicable diseases. South Africa is currently with particular emphasis on the interests of implementation of the outcomes of major UN in the midst of identifying elements that constitute developing countries, including the promotion Conferences, including the achievement of the the social dimensions in NEPAD, to highlight issues of access to technologies, co-operation and MDGs. The various UN Summits and International of poverty, hunger, illiteracy, health, infant mortality assistance. Conferences (including Monterrey, Doha, Brussels and gender balance. and Johannesburg) have provided clear strategies In support of South Africa’s agenda to combat and goals (IDGs) for advancing the development Disarmament confl icts in Africa, Cabinet decided in December process. What remains is to ensure the 2004 that South Africa should become a member implementation of the commitments made during South Africa will continue to play an active role in of the Wassenaar Arrangement, which is the only these meetings. There is an urgent need to translate all aspects of disarmament, arms control and non- international mechanism that is geared to control commitments that have been made into concrete proliferation as these relate to both weapons of mass the proliferation of conventional arms, including action, in particular in the areas of fi nancing for destruction and conventional arms, including small small arms and light weapons, so as to prevent the development and poverty eradication. arms, light weapons and anti-personnel mines. development or enhancement of military capabilities that undermine international and regional security South Africa is also active in the fi eld of social While actively promoting and supporting the non- and stability. South Africa was admitted to the development as part of the global agenda on proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, with Wassenaar Arrangement, as the fi rst African development. Follow up to the 1995 Copenhagen the goal of promoting international peace and country, in December 2005.

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 35 South Africa will continue to promote access by the brunt of these scourges, the Department as the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the G77. particularly developing countries to advanced will facilitate and contribute to South Africa’s South Africa believes that South-South co-operation dual-use technologies, equipment and material, humanitarian interventions to alleviate human is an important dimension of international co- including in the area of nuclear technology under suffering and to protect the victims of natural operation for development, as it offers substantial appropriate safeguards, for peaceful purposes disasters and conflicts. The Department will potential to countries of the South for exchanging (dual-use technologies, equipment and material facilitate South Africa’s participation in the technical, fi nancial, and institutional knowledge are those that can be used both for peaceful formulation of international humanitarian norms for the solution of development challenges and purposes and in the development of weapons of to ensure that these adequately address the plight problems. mass destruction). South Africa will thus actively of these victims, and promote the implementation participate in all relevant forums to ensure non- of these norms in the country, the region and Progressively, the importance of South-South co- proliferation controls do not become the means internationally. The Department will support operation is being understood, especially in terms whereby developing countries are denied access to international disaster mitigation initiatives aimed of global, regional and country-level efforts to advanced technologies required for their peaceful at finding sustainable solutions that address both achieve the MDGs. Rather than being a substitute development. the causes and impact of the disasters. for North-South co-operation, the South African position is that the modalities of South-South co- Humanitarian Affairs The Department will continue to facilitate South operation are complementary. Indeed, the know- Africa’s contribution to international debates on how and technology of developing countries can Internationally, there has been an increase in migration, such as the High-level Dialogue on be combined with the fi nancial and other support human vulnerability as a result of both natural Migration and Development of the United Nations of developed countries to provide assistance and disasters and conflict situations. There has General Assembly, to ensure development focused the transfer of technologies and know-how to other been a marked increase in natural disasters that outcomes that serve the needs of developing developing countries. resulted in great losses of lives and livelihoods. countries. Human insecurity has also increased owing to the Developing countries have the primary responsibility changing nature of contemporary conflicts that South-South Co-operation for promoting and implementing South-South co- are characterised by the active and deliberate operation. South African foreign policy seeks, inter targeting of civilians, widespread human rights South Africa also plays a prominent role in advancing alia, to persuade the international community to abuses and the forced displacement of large the development agenda of the South by way of support the efforts of developing countries to expand portions of populations. Since developing strengthening South-South co-operation through such co-operation. Through active participation in countries, especially in Africa, are bearing active participation in groupings of the South, such triangular co-operation arrangements such as the

36 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma with Ambassador Barbara Masekela of the Washington India, Brazil, South Africa Dialogue Forum (IBSA), South Africa will conclude its term as member of Mission with the President of board of trustees Patrick Swyegert during the presentation of a cheque donated South Africa seeks to make an important contribution the Troika of past, present and future Chairs of towards assisting the victims of Hurricane Katrina, to strengthening South-South co-operation and the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) when Cuba in Washington DC. the development of innovative South-South co- assumes the Chair during the XIV NAM Summit operation programmes. in Havana in September 2006. South Africa will, however, as a leading member of the Movement, South Africa remains committed to following up the continue to play a meaningful role in this coalition of decisions of the Second South Summit, which was held 114 countries of the South, especially in furtherance in Doha, Qatar, from 14 to 16 June 2005, as embodied of multilateralism in global affairs and resistance in the Doha Plan of Action and the Doha Declaration, against marginalisation of the many. respectively. The further strengthening of South- South Co-operation remains critical for economic and South Africa also remains an active member of the technical co-operation among developing countries Commonwealth and as such an Inter-Departmental (ECDC/TCDC), for developing and strengthening Working Group on the Commonwealth, to interact interdependence among developing countries in with the Commonwealth on its co-operation various areas, especially in the social sector, and strategy and country profi le for South Africa, has addressing problems related to poverty, education, been established. The intention of this interaction health, population, women and children. is to seek a more pro-active and pro-development relationship with the Commonwealth and its In its capacity as Chairperson of the G77, South Secretariat, with the objective of deriving maximum Africa will have the responsibility of negotiating on benefi t from South Africa’s membership. behalf of Member states at international fora all over the world. South Africa will carry the mantle North-South Dialogue for developing countries in the joint effort to create a better world for all. South Africa’s commitment to The Department serves as the focal point for North- Minister of Foreign Affairs Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma the promotion of South-South co-operation as an South dialogue, engaging key global economic with Brazilian Foreign Minister and the Indian Minister of External Affairs Natwar Singh important means of addressing the development institutions such as the World Trade Organisation sharing a lighter moment during the needs of the South will be central to its leadership (WTO), the Organisation for Economic Co- IBSA Dialogue Forum in Brazil. role of the G77. operation and Development (OECD), and the World

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 37 Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). To Consequently, the priority areas on which South in its national capacity as well as its leadership of achieve this objective, South Africa seeks to ensure Africa will focus during 2006 include the funding of UN the G77, in pursuit of the goal that programmatic and that the development agenda remains part of the structures and programmes that focus on Africa and budgetary provisions are adequate to service the focus of key economic fora, particularly the G8 and NEPAD as well as suffi cient funding for peacekeeping development and reform agenda of the South. the World Economic Forum (WEF). operations on the Continent. It is further important to note that during 2006, much focus will be placed Global Finance The 2006 G8 Summit in Saint Petersburg will on implementing management reforms in the UN focus on energy, security, health and education. Secretariat. This issue is important for South Africa, The 2005 World Summit Outcomes did not achieve The key interest for Africa is to confi rm sustained the Continent as well as other developing countries, the decisive progress as envisaged and a number commitment to the outcomes as far as G8-Africa as it will be necessary to ensure that UN Member of developing economies may not be able to attain initiatives for development are concerned. The joint States retain their oversight over how the Organisation the MDGs without additional support. In this regard, G8/OECD mechanism of the African Partnership is managed, the manner in which its priorities are the follow-up discussions on the Conference on Forum, due to meet in April and October 2006, will determined and the importance accorded by the Financing for Development will be of particular report to the Russian Presidency as far as progress Secretariat to issues. importance, as it would look into mobilising the on Africa-G8 initiatives are concerned. resources that are required. Particular attention will also be paid to the review UN programming and resource of UN’s scales of assessment for the period 2007- The Department will in its engagements solicit allocation 2009, so as to ensure that UN Member States the international community to fulfi l its Monterrey contribute to the UN budget according to their Commitments and it recognises the need for South Africa plays a prominent role in terms of ability to pay, and to resist efforts to further water- increased and more predictable resources for the UN’s budgetary and administrative activities in down this principle. development. It supports the initiative such as the order to ensure that South Africa’s interests, as well Action Against Hunger and Poverty to implement as those of the Continent, are adequately catered It is further important to note that the budgetary innovative fi nancing mechanisms for development for by the UN Secretariat and provided for in the implications of the implementation of the 2005 on a public, private, domestic or external basis and UN budget. As chair of the G77 in 2006, South World Summit Outcome will be closely monitored to complementary to ODA. Africa is entrusted with even more responsibility, as ensure the equitable allocation of resources for, and it will have to promote the interests of all developing implementation of, both security and developmental Action is also needed to identify precise areas of need countries, including leading negotiations on behalf reform proposals. South Africa will therefore continue and to breathe new life into the Monterrey partnership of the G77 on a substantial number of issues. to participate in UN intergovernmental bodies, both for development, in order to engage development

38 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 partners with specifi c requests for assistance and technical negotiating forum comprising all major countries are protected. Other objectives are to support. However, to deliver on the promises made diamond producing, trading and processing actively promote a “diamonds for development” in Monterrey, where donor countries and international countries, the diamond industry and civil society. agenda within the KPCS and to help deal with the agencies pledged to match improved reform efforts in South Africa chaired the KPCS from its inception problem of confl ict diamonds globally, with the aim developing countries with increased fi nancial aid and until 31 December 2003, when the Chair passed to of promoting peace and security on the continent, support, a demonstrated political will, especially on Canada for 2004, Russia for 2005 and Botswana also in keeping with the NEPAD objectives. the part of the industrialised countries of the North, is the current Chair for 2006. The international is necessary. implementation of the KPCS continues to be Science and Technology guided by the objectives on which it was founded, As one of the countries within the World Bank namely to: The South African government has recognised and International Monetary Fund, South Africa shares the fundamental importance of space science and the commitment toward achieving the MDGs. In this - Stem the fl ow of rough diamonds used by rebels technology, not only in the context of the modern regard 2007 will be a signifi cant year when South to fi nance armed confl ict aimed at overthrowing knowledge-based society but as an integral part of Africa chairs the G20 and exercises its stewardship legitimate governments, thereby making a a wider political and economic strategy to address in continuing the pragmatic development of the global substantial contribution to international peace national and regional development priorities. The partnership between developed and developing and security; and South African bid for the proposed Square Kilometer countries. Within this context, the evolution of the - Protect the legitimate diamond trade, upon Array (SKA) has been identifi ed as an extraordinary international economy and global fi nancial markets which many countries are dependent for their opportunity for the development of regional scientifi c requires a continuing review of the representation, economic and social development. capacity and infrastructure. The Ministers of Science operations and strategies of the Bretton Woods and Technology of Africa support the South African bid Institutions (BWIs) and South Africa continues its The KPCS seeks to achieve the above through the to host this innovative software-driven radio telescope. commitment to supporting the reform of the BWIs. creation and implementation of an international The department will continue to support this bid to certifi cation scheme for rough diamonds, based develop the mission-driven technology and support primarily on national certifi cation schemes and on human capital development in the region. The Kimberley Process Certifi cation internationally agreed minimum standards. The Scheme Department participates actively in the standing In order to implement the Tunis Commitment and Tunis bodies of the KPCS with the primary objectives of Agenda for the Information Society, which were adopted The Kimberley Process Certifi cation Scheme supporting Government’s efforts to ensure that the at the Second phase of the World Summit on the (KPCS) is a voluntary tripartite international collective interests of African diamond-producing Information Society (WSIS), the Department will continue

Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009 39 to be involved in the contentious issue of Internet review cycle, crosscutting themes will also be governmental co-operation, with diplomacy and Governance as well as bridging the . addressed inter alia on poverty eradication, changing international law being the key instruments for this. In unsustainable patterns of consumption and production, Africa, the continent’s multilateral systems have been Environment protecting and managing the natural resource base of overhauled and new ones introduced and international economic and social development, Africa and other law forms the basis for this. Although the reality of and the need for all regional initiatives, means of implementation and the Parties to be actively involved in the multilateral processes institutional framework for . The promotion and strengthening of international law that aim at addressing the negative impact of climate will include participation in the work of the International change was underscored at the meeting of the United In the context of international marine conservation Law Commission, participation in the Sixth (legal) Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change instruments, South Africa is in the process of claiming Committee of the United Nations, working towards (UNFCCC)/ Kyoto Protocol in Montreal in December 2005, its rights to the continental shelf beyond the 200-nautical the establishment of the International Criminal Court, the reluctance of certain countries to fully engage in these mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) under the United formalising agreements to promote North-South and processes remains problematical. Despite this dilemma, Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), South-South relations, promoting the establishment Parties managed to agree to launch negotiations on the which would allow it to mine the extended continental and integration of the African Court on Human and next commitment period, as well as discussions on future shelf and harvest sedentary organisms living on it. Peoples Rights and the African Court of Justice and steps to be taken by all Parties. South Africa will continue strengthening AU structures through international to work closely with all parties involved in tracking the International Law law. The advancement of international law in ongoing issue of Climate Change. issues and topical areas such as disarmament and It is clear from the above that the dynamism of non-proliferation, terrorism, environment, law of the The 14th Commission for Sustainable Development contemporary international relations continues to sea, human rights, international humanitarian issues, meeting (CSD14) in May 2006 will be the second review present both threats and challenges to international economic relations and the peaceful settlement of session of the Commission since the Johannesburg law. The contribution to the formulation of international disputes will also continue. World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) law and the enhancement of respect for its provisions and will consider practical measures and options to therefore continue to be strategic objectives of the A complete record of the Treaty collection of the expedite the implementation of the Johannesburg Department. Continuing challenges are presented Republic of South Africa will be maintained and the Programme of Implementation (JPOI) in the areas by a redefi nition of international security, which has Department will continue to render an information of energy for sustainable development, air pollution/ resulted in an increased focus on human security. service specialising in international law. Legal advice in atmosphere, climate change and industrial The increased interdependence between states respect of South African law concerning departmental development. During this cycle, as in the previous in an increasingly complex world requires inter- issues will also be provided.

40 Department of Foreign Affairs Strategic Plan 2006 - 2009