It is our custom in the Republic of South Africa to mark August as Women’s month. The 9th of August is celebrated yearly as a public holiday to pay tribute to the more than 20 000 women who marched to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956 in protest against the extension of Pass Laws to women.
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President Cyril Ramaphosa: Progress in national effort to contain the Coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic

Media Advisory 11 July 2021

My Fellow South Africans,
Two weeks ago I announced a set of additional measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus.
In deciding to introduce these additional measures, Cabinet followed scientific advice provided by the Ministerial Advisory Committee on COVID-19 and deliberations of the National Coronavirus Command Council.

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International Mandela Day 2021

Media Advisory 9 July 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated poverty and food insecurity for many families across South Africa. The Nelson Mandela Foundation, as it often has done, has been working tirelessly since the beginning of the lockdown to assist those desperately in need of sustenance.

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Visit by Her Excellency, Ambassador Tokozile Xasa to the Petra Diamonds in Antwerp

Media Advisory 22 June 2021

Visit by Her Excellency, Ambassador Tokozile Xasa to the Petra Diamonds in Antwerp

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H.E. Ambassador Tokozile Xasa paid a Courtesy Call on Minister President of the Wallonia Region, Mr E Di Rupo

Media Advisory 18 June 2021

H.E. Ambassador Tokozile Xasa paid a Courtesy Call on Minister President of the Wallonia Region, Mr E Di Rupo

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The latest statistics for COVID-19 in South Africa

Media Advisory 6 May 2021

06 May 2021
Cases: 1 590 370
Deaths: 54 620
Recoveries: 1 511 905

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The latest statistics for COVID-19 in South Africa

Media Advisory 5 May 2021

The latest statistics for COVID-19 in South Africa. The total number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in South Africa is now at 1 586 148 with 1 187 new cases and 339 655 health care workers vaccinated since the last report.
04 May 2021
Cases: 1 586 148
Deaths: 54 511
Recoveries: 1 509 656

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Africa Month 2021

Media Advisory 5 May 2021

Africa Month 2021. The month of May is recognised as Africa month – a time when the continent of Africa commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU).

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The latest statistics for COVID-19 in South Africa

Media Advisory 2 May 2021

Ubuntu Newsflash 473

Media Advisory 29 April 2021

Ubuntu Newsflash 473.

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Statement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on South Africa’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Media Advisory 13 May 2020

Statement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on South Africa’s response to the coronavirus pandemic.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the nation at 20h30 this evening, Wednesday 13 May 2020, on South Africa’s ongoing measures to manage the spread of the coronavirus through the implementation of a risk adjusted strategy.

Media Advisory 13 May 2020

President Cyril Ramaphosa will address the nation at 20h30 this evening, Wednesday 13 May 2020, on South Africa’s ongoing measures to manage the spread of the coronavirus through the implementation of a risk adjusted strategy.
 
The President’s address follows a number of meetings of Cabinet and the National Coronavirus Command Council.
 
The South African Broadcasting Corporation will provide a pool feed to broadcasters. Arrangements for the pool feed can be made with Mr Thoke at the SABC.
 
Public enquiries: Presidential Hotline 17737
 
COVID-19 Specific enquiries: NICD Hotline 0800 0029 999
 
Media enquiries: Spokesperson to the President, Khusela Diko on media@presidency.gov.za

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President Cyril Ramaphosa pays tribute to nurses on International Nurses Day.

Media Advisory 12 May 2020

President Cyril Ramaphosa pays tribute to nurses on International Nurses Day.

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11 May 2020: The latest COVID-19 statistics update from Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize.

Media Advisory 11 May 2020

11 May 2020. The latest COVID-19 statistics update from Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize.

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10 May 2020: The latest COVID-19 statistics update from Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize.

Media Advisory 10May 2020

10 May 2020. The latest COVID-19 statistics update from Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize.

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African Union Chairperson President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Monday, 04 May 2020, participate in a World Health Organisation pledge Conference.

Media Advisory 4 May 2020

African Union Chairperson President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Monday, 04 May 2020, participate in a World Health Organisation pledge Conference.

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President Ramaphosa to participate in the Non-Aligned Movement Online Summit on COVID-19.

Media Advisory 4 May 2020

President Ramaphosa to participate in the Non-Aligned Movement Online Summit on COVID-19.

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President Ramaphosa to receive PPE worth R1 billion for healthcare workers.

Media Advisory 30 April 2020

President Ramaphosa to receive PPE worth R1 billion for healthcare workers.

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President Ramaphosa convenes virtual meeting with AU Regional Executive Communities Chairs.

Media Advisory 29 April 2020

President Ramaphosa convenes virtual meeting with AU Regional Executive Communities Chairs.

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President Ramaphosa welcomes Cuban health professionals.

Media Advisory 27 April 2020

President Ramaphosa welcomes Cuban health professionals.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa: South Africa’s response to the Corona virus pandemic.

Media Advisory 23 April 2020

My Fellow South Africans,
It has been exactly seven weeks since the first case of the coronavirus was confirmed in our country.
Since then, all our lives have changed in fundamental ways.
As a nation we have been forced to take aggressive action against an invisible enemy that threatened our lives and the lives of our loved ones.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa: Additional Coronavirus COVID-19 economic and social relief measures.

Media Advisory 21 April 2020

President Cyril Ramaphosa announces additional Coronavirus COVID-19 economic and social relief measures.

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Repatriation of South Africans.

Media Advisory 20 April 2020

DIRCO through the COVID-19 Command Centre has together with foreign embassies and South African Airways been hard at work coordinating the repatriation of citizens from and to South Africa. To date, of the 3 639 South Africans who have indicated that they would like to return, 1 332 have been repatriated.

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COVID-19 Economic Relief Measures.

Media Advisory 17 April 2020

COVID-19 Economic Relief Measures.

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Ubuntu News Flash 423.

Media Advisory 16 April 2020

Ubuntu News Flash 423.

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AU Chair, President Cyril Ramaphosa, appoints Special Envoys to mobilise support for continental fight against COVID-19.

Media Advisory 14 April 2020

AU Chair, President Cyril Ramaphosa, appoints Special Envoys to mobilise support for continental fight against COVID-19.

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A message from President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Media Advisory 14 April 2020

A message from President Cyril Ramaphosa.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa: Extension of Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown to the end of April.

Media Advisory 9 April 2020

President Cyril Ramaphosa: Extension of Coronavirus COVID-19 lockdown to the end of April.

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Ubuntu Newsletter 422.

Media Advisory 9 April 2020

Ubuntu Newsletter 422.

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President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirms its unwavering support to WHO during Coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak.

Media Advisory 8 April 2020

President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirms its unwavering support to WHO during Coronavirus COVID-19 outbreak.

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April 2016 Edition of South Africa on the Move.

Media Advisory 27 April 2016

The newsletter of the South African Embassy to the Kingdom of Belgium, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Mission to the European Union.

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Speech by Ambassador Mxolisi NKOSI, on the occasion of the Freedom Day Celebration Reception.

Media Advisory 22 May 2014

It gives me great pleasure to extend warm and fraternal greetings to all of you this evening, the occasion of the National Day celebration of South Africa. We would like to express our most profound thanks and gratitude to you for gracing this occasion with your presence.
Twenty years ago, on 27 April 1994 South Africans of all races and creed took to the polls to cast aside centuries of discrimination and oppression and build a new society on the foundation of freedom and democracy.

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Minister Nkoana-Mashabane concludes working visit to Brussels.

Media Advisory 3 April 2014

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane has today concluded a working visit to Brussels, where she led the South African delegation to the Fourth Africa-European Union (EU) Summit, which took place on 02-03 April 2014, under the theme: “Investing in Peace, Prosperity and People.”

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Minister Nkoana-Mashabane to lead the SA delegation to the Africa-EU Summit.

Media Advisory 31 March 2014

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane will lead the South African delegation to the 4th Africa-European Union (EU) Summit scheduled for 02-03 April 2014 in Brussels, Belgium, under the theme: “Investing in People, Prosperity and Peace.”

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Electoral Commission and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation collaborate to register South Africans living abroad for the 2014 elections.

Media Advisory 7 January 2014

The Electoral Commission (IEC) and the Department of International Relations & Cooperation (DIRCO) hereby announce their collaboration to register South Africans living outside of the country as voters for the very first time. This follows the presidential assent to the Electoral Amendment Act No. 18 of 2013 and the publication of amendments to the Regulations on the Registration of Voters late last year.

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Address to the Nation by President Jacob Zuma on the departure of former President Nelson Mandela, 5 December 2013

Media Advisory 6 December 2013

My Fellow South Africans,
Our beloved Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, the founding President of our democratic nation has departed.
He passed on peacefully in the company of his family around 20h50 on the 5th of December 2013.

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Deputy Minister Nhlanhla Nene holds talks with EC Development Commissioner, Andris Piebalgs

Media Advisory 4 December 2013

Deputy Minister of Finance Nhlanhla Nene, accompanied by Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi held crucial bilateral discussions with the European Commission (EC) Development Commissioner, Andris Piebalgs on 3 December 2013. These talks took place on the sidelines of the Regional Programming Seminar for the 11th European Development Fund (EDF) for East, Southern Africa, and the Indian Ocean Islands, held on 3-5 December 2013 in Brussels.

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South Africa expresses condolences following a suicide bomb attack in Beirut.

Media Advisory 22 November 2013

The South African Government would like to express its heartfelt condolences to the government and people of the Lebanese Republic and in particular to the families of the victims of the twin suicide bomb attack against the Iranian Embassy in Beirut on 19 November 2013, which killed 23 people and injured more than 150 others.

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SA Government makes a contribution to rescue operations in the Philippines.

Media Advisory 21 November 2013

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation, on behalf of the Government of South Africa, contributed an amount of R4 million in response to the call for international assistance by the Government of the Philippines.

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South Africa elected to the UN Human Rights Commission.

Media Advisory 13 November 2013

The United Nations (UN) General Assembly has on Wednesday, 12 November 2013, elected South Africa, together with 14 other Member States of the UN, to serve on the UN Human Rights Council (HRC).
The HRC is the UN’s inter-governmental body that deliberates on issues pertaining to the development, promotion, protection, and fulfilment of international human rights law, norms and standards.

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The South African Government condemns the terrorist attack in Kenya in which a number of civilians including a South African national were killed.

Media Advisory 22 September 2013

President Zuma, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, has expressed his shock and dismay at yesterday’s attack against innocent civilians in Nairobi.

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President Jacob Zuma Sends Words Of Solidarity To The United Mexican States Following Hurricane Ingrid And Tropical Storm Manuel.

Media Advisory 21 September 2013

The President of the Republic of South Africa, His Excellency Mr Jacob Zuma, has on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, expressed condolences to the Government and people of the United Mexican States following devastating tropical storms that has ripped Mexico and claimed more than 80 lives.

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Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim attends International Conference on Somalia in Brussels.

Media Advisory 16 September 2013

Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim, accompanied by Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi, will attend an international conference on Somalia hosted by the European Union (EU) on 16 September 2013 in Brussels.

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President Zuma congratulates the Prime Minister-elect of the Commonwealth of Australia.

Media Advisory 10 September 2013

His Excellency President Jacob Zuma has, on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, congratulated Mr Tony Abbott on his election to the position of Prime Minister of the Commonwealth of Australia.
President Zuma wished Mr Abbott well in his new position, and reconfirmed his appreciation of the warm and close relations that exist between South Africa and Australia

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South African response to the use of chemical weapons in Damascus.

Media Advisory 29 August 2013

South Africa is alarmed at the latest escalation in the conflict in the Syrian Arab Republic and condemns the use of chemical weapons. South Africa extends its heartfelt condolences to the families of the people who lost their lives in the chemical weapons attack. The use of these weapons in Syria is of serious concern and is wholly unacceptable by any standard.
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South Africa condemns acts of violence in Egypt.

Media Advisory 15 August 2013

The South African Government categorically condemns the violence used by the Egyptian security forces to disperse the pro-democracy demonstrators in Cairo and elsewhere in Egypt yesterday. The tragic loss of Egyptian lives takes Egypt further away from the democratic aspirations as expressed by the millions of Egyptian voters last year.

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President Jacob Zuma congratulates President Robert Mugabe.

Media Advisory 4 August 2013

H E President Jacob Zuma extends his profound congratulations to H E President Robert G Mugabe on his re-election as President of the Republic of Zimbabwe following the successful harmonised elections held on 31 July 2013. President Zuma urges all political parties in Zimbabwe to accept the outcome of the elections as election observers reported it to be an expression of the will of the people.

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South Africa calls on Egyptians to refrain from violence.

Media Advisory 29 July 2013

The South African Government expresses its deep concern at the high number of deaths amongst protestors demonstrating against the unconstitutional removal of Egypt’s elected President, Mr Mohamed Morsi. Violence against a legitimate protest does not further the cause of democracy or contributes towards healing the differences between the people in a polarised society such as Egypt.

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South Africa condemns latest attacks by Al-Shabaab in Somalia.

Media Advisory 29 July 2013

The Government of the Republic of South Africa condemns in the strongest terms the bomb attack that targeted a building housing Turkish Embassy staff in Mogadishu, Somalia, on the evening of 27 July 2013. The dastardly offensive carried out by Al-Shabaab militia claimed six lives, including one Turkish official, two Somali security guards and a university student.

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President Zuma’s remarks to the media at the conclusion of the 6th South Africa – European Union Summit.

Media Advisory 22 July 2013

Your Excellencies President Von Rompuy and President Barroso,
Ministers and Commissioners,
Members of the Media
 
Let me once again welcome the esteemed EU leadership and delegation to our country today.
 
We are honoured to host the 6th SA-EU Summit as we value this strategic partnership immensely.

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President Zuma’s opening remarks at the 6th South Africa – European Union Summit.

Media Advisory 22 July 2013

President Von Rompuy, President Barroso and the EU Commissioners and delegation,
Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
The Business Delegation,
Distinguished guests,
The media,
 
I extend a warm welcome to you, on the occasion of this 6th South Africa-EU Summit.

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Sixth South Africa – European Union Summit Joint Communiqué.

Media Advisory Pretoria 18 July 2013

1. We, the leaders of South Africa (SA) and the European Union (EU), meeting today at the Sefako Mapogo Makgatho Presidential Guesthouse, reaffirmed our commitment to a Strategic Partnership based on shared values and interests, including the promotion of peace and security, human rights, democracy, the Rule of Law and sustainable development across our regions.

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South African Embassy to serve children’s homes on Mandela Day.

Media Advisory 17 July 2013

In honour of Mandela Day on 18 July, the South African Embassy in Belgium will be of service to three Children’s Home in Brussels. In the spirit of voluntarism, which has since become synonymous with Mandela Day, Embassy staff and their spouses will do needle work, painting, cleaning of toys and reorganize garden sheds.

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South Africa to host the 6th SA-EU Summit 18 July 2013.

Media Advisory 15 July 2013

South Africa will host the 6th SA-European Union Summit on Thursday, 18 July 2013, in Pretoria under the theme: “Job Creation Through Inward Investment”.
 
The theme of the Summit is in response to the diverse demands of South Africa’s National Development Plan.
 
The EU Delegation will be led by President Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council and President Jose Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission.

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Speech by Mxolisi Nkosi, Ambassador of South Africa to the Kingdom of Belgium at the Reburial Ceremony of the remains of South African Soldiers who died during World War I, Zonnebeke City Hall, West Flanders, Belgium, 9 July 2013.

Media Advisory 09 July 2013

Programme Director,
Your Worship, Mayor of Zonnebeke,
Esteemed Representatives of the Belgian Federal Government,
Esteemed Representatives of the Flemish Regional Government,
Esteemed Representatives of the Commonwealth War Graves Memorial,
Chief of South African Reserve Forces, Major-General Anderson,
Members of the Diplomatic Corps,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,
Permit me to commence my address by reading a war-time ode in honour of the memory of the city of Ypres.

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Statement on the Announcement of Abdication of His Majesty King Albert II of the Kingdom of Belgium.

Media Advisory 04 July 2013

The South African government has taken note of the announcement of abdication from the throne made by His Majesty, King Albert II of the Kingdom of Belgium on 3 July 2013. King Albert, who has reigned for 20 years and just turned 79, has been a symbol of unity in Belgium. King Albert will hand over the Crown to his eldest son Prince Philippe on the 21st of July 2013.

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Welcome Remarks by Mr. Mxolisi Nkosi, Ambassador of South Africa to Belgium and Luxembourg and Head of Mission to the European Union (EU), on the occasion of the Seminar on the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and the Future of the ACP Group.

Media Advisory 15 June 2013

It gives me great pleasure to welcome you on this auspicious occasion of the seminar on the Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) and the Future of the ACP Group. We feel profoundly honoured to have been accorded the priviledge to host this highly-anticipated event.

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Bilateral Consultations between Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa and Mr. Didier Reynders, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belgium.

Media Advisory 12 June 2013

HE Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa had bilateral consultations with HE Mr. Didier Reynders Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Belgium on 12 June 2013 in Brussels.
They welcomed the continued deepening of the EU-South Africa Strategic Partnership.
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Joint Press Statement by EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton and South African Minister of International relations and Cooperation, Maite Nkoana Mashabane on the occasion of their Ministerial Political Dialogue

Media Advisory 10 June 2013

The High Representative Catherine Ashton and South African Foreign Minister Maite Nkoana Mashabane met in Brussels on 10 June 2013 for the annual Ministerial Political Dialogue.
They welcomed the continued deepening of the EU-South Africa Strategic Partnership.
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Extract from the statement by the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, on international developments, 07 June 2013, OR Tambo Building

Media Advisory 5 June 2013

Good morning ladies and gentlemen of the media.

Visit to Europe
We are scheduled to meet Baroness Catherine Ashton, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, who is also the Vice-President of the European Commission, for the 12th SA-EU Ministerial Political Dialogue (MPD) on Monday, 10 June 2013.

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Budget Vote Speech by Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, H.E. Ms Maite Nkoana Mashabane, at the National Assembly, Cape Town, 30 May 2013

Media Advisory 30 May 2013

Honourable Speaker
Honourable Members
Your Excellencies Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Representatives of International Organizations;
Distinguished guests;
Ladies and gentlemen;
Fellow South Africans;
Comrades and Friends,
A few days ago, President Jacob Zuma was in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, for the 50th anniversary celebrations of the OAU/AU – our Pan-African organization founded in 1963 for promoting our unity in diversity, strengthening our solidarity, and building on our common history and shared values.
Kwame Nkrumah captured this vision in his address to the inaugural meeting of the OAU when he said: “Our objective is African union now. There is no time to waste. We must unite now or perish”.
Indeed, we have not perished – today we are a continent on the rise. We pay tribute to our forbearers for their foresight that gave our continent the OAU and its successor, the AU.
Honorable Speaker,
Next year will be twenty years since as a nation we began our journey in 1994 towards a better South Africa in a better Africa and a better world.

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Budget Vote Speech by the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Marius Fransman, to the National Assembly, Cape Town, 30 May 2013

Media Advisory 30 May 2013

Honourable Speaker;
Honourable Minister Maite Nkoana Mashabane and other Ministers with us today;
Honourable Deputy Minister Ebrahim Ebrahim;
The Chairperson and members of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation;
Honourable Members of Parliament;
Your Excellencies, Ambassadors, and High Commissioners;
Representatives of International Organizations;
Ladies and gentlemen;
As our foreign policy approaches its 20th Anniversary next year, it is critical that we fully assess the progress made in respect of our international relations agenda. It is appropriate that we evaluate the impact of our engagements against the agenda we have placed before us. In her address, our Minister did justice to that.
Today, South Africa is a better place than it was 19 years ago. Our promise to create a better life for all our people is beginning to see the light of day. When the ANC took over the reins of government in 1994, our new government was faced with multiple challenges of transformation. Today, this country has been transformed in every sphere.

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Budget Vote Speech by the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ebrahim I Ebrahim, to the National Assembly, Cape Town, 30 May 2013

Media Advisory 30 May 2013

Honourable Speaker;
Honourable Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane;
Ministers and Deputy Ministers present;
Honourable Deputy Minister Marius Fransman;
The Chairperson and Members of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation;
Honourable Members of Parliament;
Your Excellencies, Ambassadors, and High Commissioners;
Representatives of International Organisations;
Invited Guests;
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Our foreign policy of Ubuntu expresses the desire for others to also have what we want for ourselves. South Africa’s foreign policy, like that of any other state, is a projection of our domestic imperatives. Through our foreign policy, we project South Africa’s vast opportunities as an investment destination of choice, as a world-class tourist destination, and as an exporter of quality goods and services.

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JOINT PRESS RELEASE – South Africa and European Union Launch Human Rights Dialogue

Media Advisory Pretoria 27 May 2013

South Africa and the European Union (EU) today, formally launched a Structured Dialogue Forum on Human Rights. The launch was presided over by the Director- General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Ambassador Jerry Matjila and the EU Special Representative for Human Rights, Stavros Lambrinidis.
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Mr Andries Nel, MP, Deputy Minister of Justice and Constitutional Development adresses the “Justice 2015” Conference in Brussels

Media Advisory 23 May 2013

Programme Director
Fellow Panelists
Distinguished Guests
Comrades and Friends

Thank you very much for inviting me to represent the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development of South Africa and to share its views and experiences on how access to justice can help reduce poverty and inequality.

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Intervention by Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi on behalf of the Delegation of Republic of South Africa at the International Donors Conference for the Development of Mali, Brussels

Media Advisory 15 May 2013

Mr Chairman,
Excellencies,
Distinguished Delegates,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Allow me to join those who have spoken before us in expressing our thanks and gratitude to the EU, Mali and France for taking the initiative of convening this timely conference. We wish to take this opportunity to renew the fraternal ties of friendship and solidarity that bind the people’s of South Africa and Mali.

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Speech delivered by Mrs Angie Motshekga, Minister of Basic Education, at Freedom Park, Pretoria, on 9 May 2013.

Media Advisory 13 May 2013

Address at the celebration of Europe Day
by
Mrs Angie Motshekga, Minister of Basic Education
Freedom Park, Pretoria: 9 May 2013

Your Excellency Ambassador Roeland van de Geer, Head of the Delegation of the European Union to South Africa
Mr Carmelo Cocuzza, Regional Head of the European Investment Bank in Southern Africa and Indian Ocean
Your Excellencies Members of the Diplomatic Corps
Distinguished guests
Ladies and gentlemen,

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Remarks by Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi at the Roundtable Discussion during the Conference on the EU and the Emerging Powers, held at the European Parliament, Brussels, 30 April 2013.

Media Advisory 2 May 2013

Moderator of the Panel, Professor Defraigne,
Excellencies, Ambassadors,
Esteemed Scholars,
Ladies and gentlemen,

Let me also extend my profound gratitude to the Conference organisers for the opportunity to participate in this Roundtable and to interact with the distinguished audience present here today.

[+] Read more

Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane congratulates Alhaji Muhammad Mumuni on his appointment as the new Secretary-General of the ACP Group of States.

Media Advisory 26 March 2013

Earlier today, Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, on behalf of the government and people of South Africa extended her congratulations to Honourable Alhaji Muhammad Mumuni on his appointment as the new Secretary-General of the ACP group at the Special ACP Council of Ministers held on 26 March 2013 in Brussels. Mr. Mumuni is the immediate- past Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration of Ghana, and will assume his new responsibilities on 1 April 2013.
[+] Read more

Statement by Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi following Mr Alhaji Muhammad Mumuni’s nomination to fill the position of Secretary General of the ACP

Media Advisory 26 March 2013

Your Excellency, President of the ACP Council of Ministers, Hon. Phandu Sekelemani, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation of the Republic of Botswana

[+] Read more

Vacancy – Marketing Officer

Media Advisory 12 February 2013

There is a vacancy for the position of Marketing Officer at the South African Embassy.

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Opening Remarks by Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi at the Coega Seminar held at the South African Embassy in Brussels 7 February 2013

Media Advisory 7 February 2013

Esteemed Representatives of Private and Public Sector Companies,
Honourable Representatives of Coega,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
I feel profoundly honoured and privileged to welcome you to South Africa House on this auspicious occasion. I thank most sincerely for attending this investment seminar which holds real prospects for profitable and rewarding returns for your companies and shareholders.

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Statement by Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi at the Ministerial Support and Follow-up Group Meeting on Mali, 5 February 2013, Brussels

Media Advisory 6 February 2013

Mr Chairman,
Honourable Ministers,
Distinguished Delegates,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
South Africa welcomes the timely convening of this meeting, which in our view will lend further impetus to on-going efforts to respond comprehensively to the situation in Mali. We commend, the European External Action Service (EEAS), under the guidance of Baroness Ashton for hosting this extremely important meeting.

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SA Embassy celebrates Africa’s Kick-off

Media Advisory 6 February 2013

The SA Embassy hosted the opening event of the Orange African Cup of Nations 2013 in Brussels on 19 January 2013. Although we could not feel the beat of the African drum tremble through the stadium, we were certainly there in spirit as we witnessed the vibrant opening ceremony which set the tone for Africa’s greatest sporting showcase.
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Speech by Amb Nkosi at the seminar on the Kimberley Process organised by the Egmont Institute and the Antwerp World Diamond Council, Brussels, 17 December 2012

Media Advisory 27 November 2012

Moderator of the Panel,
Excellencies, Ambassadors,
Esteemed Fellow Panellists,
Ladies and gentlemen,

I wish to express my sincere appreciation to the Egmont Institute and the Antwerp World Diamond Council for hosting this auspicious event, and for the invitation extended to me to join this illustrious Panel on the Kimberly Process this morning. This is quite a timely seminar, in view of the Kimberly Process Plenary Meeting held last month in Washington.

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A taste of South Africa at the BSB Christmas bazaar

Media Advisory 27 November 2012

The ‘Friends of BSB’ club is hosting an Annual Christmas Bazaar on Saturday 1 December 2012 from 10:00 to 16:00 in the British School of Brussels (BSB) Sports Barn, Cafeteria and Staff Room where you can taste South African wines, purchase gifts and festive foods.

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Successful 20th SA-EP IPM concluded

Media Advisory 15 November 2012

The 20th Inter-Parliamentary Meeting (IPM) between the South African Parliament and the European Parliament’s Delegation for Relations with South Africa (D-ZA) was held successfully on 12-13 November 2012, in Brussels.
[+] Read more

Statement by Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi at the ACP Ministerial Meeting on Climate Change, 9 November 2012.

Media Advisory 12 November 2012

On behalf of the Delegation I would like to express our most profound gratitude and thanks to the Senior officials for the comprehensive Report before us which reflects the views, aspirations and hopes of ACP cultures ahead of the DOHA COP18 meeting. South Africa is of the firm view that Doha should be an implementation conference whose primary objective is securing a 2nd commitment period of the Kyoto Protocol (KP) through the adoption of amendments to Annex B to ensure that no legal gap occurs between the 1st and 2nd commitment period, as well as between the end of the 2nd commitment period and the coming into force of the new ADP legal outcome.
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Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi to address the youth on the International Volunteer Day, 5 December 2012, Ghent, Belgium

Media Advisory 30 October 2012

The United Nations have declared the 5th of December as International Volunteer Day. A perfect opportunity to boost the cooperation between Flanders and South Africa when it comes to youth. During the period 2011-2013 the focus will be on stimulating South African youngsters to volunteer.
[+] Read more

South Africans invited to apply for new Erasmus Mundus Action 2 programme EU-SATURN

Media Advisory 30 October 2012

Applicatiopns for South African students are now open for EU-SATURN, an EU-funded mobility programme that envisages the mobility of a total of 82 South African students and researchers (master, PhD and staff) in the period 2013-2016.
[+] Read more

President Zuma’s speech on the occasion of the release of the Census 2011 results

Media Advisory 30 October 2012

It gives me great pleasure to join you this morning at this important event where the results of Census 2011 are ready to be shared with the people of South Africa.
[+] Read more

South African economy stable, robust as ever 2012

Media Advisory 28 October 2012

Medium Term Budget Policy Statement 2012 speech by Pravin Gordhan, Minister of Finance

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Statement by Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi at the ACP Trade Ministers Meeting, October 2012

Media Advisory 25 October 2012

Chairperson,
We join previous speakers in expressing our appreciation to the Senior Officials and the Secretariat for the report before us and express our support for the sentiments contained therein. We also express solidarity with Jamaica and other fraternal countries in the Caribbean who are affected by Hurricane Sandy.

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Donated Hope and Optimism Art Collection arrives in South Africa

Media Advisory 17 October 2012

A selection of 25 lithographical artworks donated to South Africa by Gerrit Kempeneers and received by the South African Department of Arts and Culture on 8 September 2012 has arrived in South Africa.
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South African Athletes Participate in Brussels Marathon

Media Advisory 10 October 2012

Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi and the staff at the South African Embassy in Brussels congratulate all South Africans who participated in the Brussels Marathon on Sunday 7 October 2012.
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Speech by Dr. Rob Davies, Minister of Trade and Industry, at the Discussion of UNCTAD’s Investment Policy Framework for Sustainable Development (IPFSD)

Media Advisory 26 September 2012

Geneva, Switzerland, 25-09-2012.
We are pleased to be at this discussion, and to be given the opportunity to offer a South African Government Policy perspective on investment. This follows on from our participation at the World Investment Forum during the UNCTAD Thirteen Conference in Qatar in May this year, and marks another example of the unique leadership UNCTAD provides in development policy thinking on a range of issues, including on investment.

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Statement on Bilateral Consultations between President Zuma and Prime Minister Elio Di Rupo of Belgium

Media Advisory 21 September 2012

During his visit to Brussels on the occasion of the 5th session of the South Africa-EU Summit, President Jacob Zuma held bilateral consultations with Elio Di Rupo, the Prime Minister of Belgium, on 18 September 2012.
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Fifth European Union-South Africa Summit – Joint Communiqué

Media Advisory 18 September 2012

EU-South Africa: a partnership for our people, prosperity and peace
Declaration by Jacob Zuma, President of South Africa, Herman Van Rompuy, President of the European Council and Jose Manuel Barroso, President of the European Commission on the occasion of the fifth EU-South Africa Summit, Brussels,
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President Zuma leads South African delegation to the 5th SA-EU Summit

Media Advisory 17 September 2012

His Excellency President Jacob Zuma will lead a South African Government delegation to the 5th South Africa (SA)-European Union (EU) Summit, scheduled to take in Brussels, Belgium, on Tuesday, 18 September 2012.
The Summit takes place within the context of the ongoing political dialogue – the Magôbagôba Dialogue – under the auspices of the SA-EU Strategic Partnership and the SA-EU Trade, Development and Cooperation (TDCA).

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Conference on Innovation for Poverty Alleviation – in the margins of the South Africa-EU Summit
Tuesday 18 September 2012

Media Advisory 10 September 2012

The South African Department of Science and Technology (DST) and the European Commission are
organising a Conference on “Innovation for Poverty Alleviation” as side event to the fifth South
Africa – EU Summit. The Conference will present and celebrate the European Union’s development
cooperation programme on “Innovation for Poverty Alleviation” with South Africa. The event will
take place in Brussels on Tuesday 18 September 2012. The programme will include a keynote
address by His Excellency, President Jacob Zuma, President of the Republic of South Africa as well as
contributions from the European Commissioner for Development, Commissioner Andris Piebalgs
and South Africa’s Minister of Science and Technology, Her Excellency, Minister Naledi Pandor.

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Remarks by Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane following a meeting with Ms Catherine Ashton, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy

Media Advisory 27 August 2012

Good Afternoon Ladies and Gentlemen of the Media,
High Representative Ashton and I have just concluded our discussions. Whilst High Representative Ashton has visited South Africa previously, I am glad to welcome her again to South Africa in her capacity as the European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, as Vice-President of the European Commission, and as interlocutor on the Ministerial Political Dialogue between South Africa and the European Union.

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Minister Nkoana-Mashabane to host her EU counterpart

Media Advisory 24 August 2012

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms Maite Nkoana Mashabane, and her counterpart from the European Union, Ms Catherine Ashton, High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, will co-chair the SA-EU Ministerial Political Dialogue (MPD) in Pretoria on Friday, 24 August 2012.

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PRESIDENT ZUMA DECLARES PERIOD OF MOURNING AND APPOINTS COORDINATING MINISTERIAL COMMITTEE

Media Advisory 19 August 2012

President Zuma has declared a period of national mourning from Monday 20 to Sunday 26 August 2012, to commemorate the lives of all South Africans who have died violently, especially the 44 who were killed in incidents in Marikana, North West province.
Ten Lonmin mine employees were killed between 10 and 12 August, and on 16 August, 34 people were killed and 78 were injured.

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MARIKANA LONMIN MINE INCIDENT

Media Advisory 19 August 2012

Government expressed its dismay and is saddened by the developments at the Lonmin Marikana mine in the North West which has claimed lives of citizens and police officers. We offer our sincere condolences to all families who have lost their loved ones. We wish those who have been injured a speedy recovery.
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Snow in all nine provinces in South Africa

Media Advisory 16 August 2012

Tuesday 7 August 2012 was a rather unusual day in South Africa as all nine provinces experienced snowfall. The nation witnessed quite a rare occurrence, given that winter snow is usually expected on the Drakensberg mountain range of the Eastern Cape, towns in the Little Karoo and the peaks of Cape mountains such as Ceres and Robertson.

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SA OLYMPIANS RECEIVE HEROIC WELCOME

Media Advisory 16 August 2012

South African’s Olympians received a warm welcome from chanting fans, who were dancing and waving posters while anticipating the arrival of their heroes at OR Tambo International Airport this morning, 14 August 2012.
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A third Gold Medal for South Africa!

Media Advisory 2 August 2012

South Africa’s rowing team of Sizwe Ndlovu, Matthew Brittain, John Smith and James Thompson secured the country’s third gold medal of the London Olympic Games, finishing first in the men’s lightweight four final on Thursday 2 August.

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`Science and Technology Portfolio Committee visits Brussels

Media Advisory 1 August 2012

Members of the South African Parliament’s Portfolio Committee on Science and Technology undertook a successful study tour to Brussels from 23 to 25 July 2012. The Committee is responsible for overseeing the work of the Department of Science and Technology and for processing legislation pertaining to science and technology in the South African National Assembly. The delegation visiting Brussels comprised seven Members of the Committee, led by its Chairperson, Dr Nqaba Ngcobo.
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South Africa wins second Gold Medal!

Media Advisory 1 August 2012

Chad Le Clos (20) from Durban managed to deny the favourite, Michael Phelps, another gold medal by beating him in the 200m butterfly at the Olympic swimming pool on Tuesday 31 July. Trailing until the last 50m, Le Clos managed to overtake Phelps and finish with a time of 1:52.96 beating his own national record by well over a second.

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South African swimmer breaks world record at Olympics

Media Advisory 30 July 2012

Cameron van der Burgh smashed the world record to become the first South African men’s swimming Olympic champion in winning the 100m breaststroke gold medal at the Olympic swimming pool on Sunday 29 July. He managed, not only, to fight off a crack field, including defending Olympic champion Kosuke Kitajima who was aiming to become the first man to win the same title at three successive Olympics, he also managed to set a new world record of 58.46sec, 0.12 seconds faster than the previous record held by Australian Brenton Rickard on July 27, 2009 at the world championships in Rome.
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Successful conclusion to the 13th session of the SA-EU Joint Cooperation Council

Media Advisory 25 July 2012

The 13th session of the SA-EU JCC was held successfuly in Pretoria, South Africa on 17 July 2012. The meeting was co-chaired by the Deputy Director-General in charge of Europe from the South African Department of International Relationd and Cooperation, Ambassador Rapu Molekane, and the MD for Africa from the European External Action Service (EEAS), Mr Nick Westcott.
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The South African Embassy in Brussels joins the world in celebrating Mandela Day

Media Advisory 24 July 2012

On Wednesday, 18th July 2012 the South African Embassy in Brussels joined South Africa, and the world in celebrating President Nelson Mandela’s 94th birthday.
For 67 years Nelson Mandela devoted his life to the service of humanity, first as an activist, then as a human rights lawyer, he become a prisoner of conscience, an international peacemaker and the first democratically elected President of a free South Africa.

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South Africa to host 13th session of the SA-EU Joint Cooperation Council

Media Advisory 12 July 2012

The 13th SA-EU JCC session will be held in Pretoria, South Africa on 17 July 2012. The JCC is held annually to assess progress made in the implementation of sectoral cooperation programmes between South Africa and the EU. The Trade, Development and Cooperation Agreement (TDCA), provides the basis for the cooperation which was further enhanced with the establishment of the SA-EU Strategic Partnership in 2007.

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South African cyclist in Brussels

Media Advisory 9 July 2012

Ambassador Nkosi welcomed Emile Jacobs, a South African cyclist who is currently a guest rider for a Belgian club – Lotto Olympia Tienen. He has been training in Belgium for the past 4 years for a 3 month annual European racing campaign usually held between June and September. His stint at Lotto Olympia Tienen will assist him in gaining valuable international experience, by racing against some of the best European cyclists.

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Media remarks by Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane at the bilateral consultations with the Belgian Deputy Prime-Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign trade and European Affairs, Mr Didier Reynders: 4 July

Media Advisory 5 July 2012

Members of the media
Ladies and gentlemen
Good afternoon and welcome.
We have just had a productive bilateral meeting with my counterpart, His Excellency Mr Didier Reynders, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Belgium.

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Minister Nkoana-Mashabane to host Belgian counterpart

Media Advisory 4 July 2012

International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane will hold bilateral consultations with her Belgian counterpart, the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, Mr Didier Reynders, on 04-05 July 2012 in Pretoria.
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National Youth Development Agency‘s Working Visit to Brussels

Media Advisory 28 June 2012

A delegation from South Africa’s National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) is visiting Brussels from 26 – 30 June as part of the ongoing partnership with the Government of Flanders, Ministry of Education, Jeugd and Gelijke Kanses en Brussel. The visit is timely as it takes place during the youth month in South Africa, dedicated to young people in the spirit of June 1976.
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South African Embassy to welcome the Global Change Makers in Brussels

Media Advisory 22 June 2012

Five young South Africans will represent the country at the Euro Africa Youth Summit as part of the Global Changemakers Programme. Happy Khambule will act as a peer facilitator while Baxolise Dlali, Gcobani Qambela , Lebogang Shilakoe, and Yolande Oda Hendler form part of a group of 60 participants that will attend the three day Summit in Brussels.
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Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi addresses participants on the occasion of the United Wisdom of Africa Foundation Gala Dinner in Celebration of the African Day of the Child 16 June 2012

Media Advisory 18 June 2012

Follow the link to read a copy of the speech delivered by Ambassador Nkosi on 16 June 2012.
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South African Ambassador presents his Letters of Credence in the Grand Duchy Luxembourg

Media Advisory 12 June 2012

His Excellency, Ambassador Mxolisi Nkosi will be presenting his Letters of Credence to His Royal Highness, Grand Duke Henri of Luxembourg on Wednesday 13 June 2012. This event will be preceded by a meeting between Ambassador Nkosi and the Chief of Protocol of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on the 12 June, to discuss the logistical practicalities of the ceremony.

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South African Revenue Service (SARS) to receive a Global Anti-Counterfeiting High Commendation Award in Paris

Media Advisory 8 June 2012

The SARS Customs attaché in Brussels, Coffet Lebepe, will be receiving the Global Ant-Counterfeiting High Commendation Award on behalf of SARS, on the 7 June 2012. The Award ceremony will be SANOFI Building, Paris and will be awarded by Global Anti-Counterfeiting Group (GACG), which is an informal network of national and regional intellectual protection and enforcement organisations covering nearly 40 countries and its Head Office is based in London.

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Ambassador Nkosi meets the ACP Committee of Ambassadors on 4 June 2012

Media Advisory 5 June 2012

In introducing Ambassador Nkosi, Secretary General Chambas referred to South Africa as a symbol of the African Renaissance with a vibrant economy that remains a model for the ACP Group of countries. Ambassador Nkosi then presented his speech (see enclosed speech). Ambassador Gomes of Guyana, on behalf of the Dean of the ACP Group in Brussels, welcomed Ambassador Nkosi to the extended ACP family at a unique time when the ACP has to craft a future for the group.

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Workshop to advance Africa-EU radio astronomy cooperation.

Media Advisory 25 May 2012

The European Parliament adopted the Written Declaration (45/2011) on « Science Capacity Building in Africa – the promotion of EU-African radio astronomy on 15 March 2012. The Written Declaration calls for specific support to strengthen Africa-EU cooperation in radio astronomy.

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Statement on the Global African Diaspora Summit in Johannesburg on 25 May 2012.

Media Advisory 25 May 2012

South Africa will host the Global African Diaspora Summit in Johannesburg on 25 May 2012. The theme of the Summit is: “Towards the Realisation of a United and Prosperous Africa and its Diaspora”. The Diaspora Summit will take place on the 49th anniversary of African unity which was marked by the establishment of the Organisation of African Union (OAU) in 1963, and the transition to the African Union in 2002.

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Visit by Minister Shabangu to Brussels – 16 to 17 May 2012

Media Advisory 15 May 2012

The Minister of Mineral Resources, Ms. Susan Shabangu, accompanied by Dr. Thibedi Ramontja, Director-General: Mineral Resources is visiting Brussels from 16 to 17 May 2012.

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Visit by Deputy Minister Fransman to Brussels

Media Advisory 10May 2012

The Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Marius Fransman, is visiting Brussels on Friday, 11 May 2012, for discussions with the EU on Madagascar.

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Visit of Minister of International Relations and Cooperation to Brussels

Media Advisory 07 May 2012

On Monday 7th May 2012, Minister Nkoana-Mashabane, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and the current COP17/CMP7 President, accompanied by South Africa’s Ambassador at Large for COP17/CMP7, Ambassador Mxakato-Diseko and South Africa’s Head of Mission to the EU, Ambassador Nkosi, participated in an Informal Ministerial Roundtable for Ambitious Follow-up to Durban – Accelerated Climate Action in Brussels.

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South African Embassy to Belgium and Luxembourg, and Mission to EU and Celebrates 18 Years of Freedom and Democracy

Media Advisory 03 May 2012

Today, the South African Embassy to Belgium and Luxembourg, and Mission to EU and Celebrates 18 Years of Freedom and Democracy. Since 1994, South Africa has made tremendous strides towards delivering the Freedom Dividend, evidenced by improvement in the South African People’s lives in access to housing, education, water, primary healthcare etc.

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