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International Relations
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16
International
Relations
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 271International Relations
According to the South African Constitution, Legislation
the President is ultimately responsible for the The DIRCO derives its mandate from the
foreign policy and international relations. It is following legislation:
the President’s prerogative to appoint heads • The Foreign States Immunities Act, 1981
of mission, receive foreign heads of mission, (Act 87 of 1981), regulates the extent of the
conduct state-to-state relations, and negotiate immunity of foreign states from the jurisdiction
and sign all international agreements. of the South African courts and provides for
International agreements that are not of a matters connected therewith.
technical, administrative or executive nature • The Diplomatic Immunities and Privileges
will only bind the country after being approved Act, 2001 (Act 37 of 2001), provides for
by Parliament. Parliament also approves the the immunities and privileges of diplomatic
country’s ratification of or accession to multilateral missions and consular posts and their
agreements. All international agreements must members, heads of state, special envoys and
be tabled in Parliament for information purposes. certain representatives of the United Nations
The Minister of International Relations and (UN) and its specialised agencies, and other
Cooperation is entrusted with the formulation, international organisations and certain people.
promotion, execution and daily conduct of South • The African Renaissance and International
Africa’s foreign policy. Cooperation Fund Act, 2001 (Act 51 of 2001),
The Department of International Relations and establishes an African Renaissance and
Cooperation’s (DIRCO) overall mandate is to International Cooperation Fund to enhance
work for the realisation of South Africa’s foreign cooperation between South Africa and other
policy objectives. This is done by: countries, in particular African countries,
• coordinating and aligning South Africa’s through the promotion of democracy, good
international relations abroad governance, the prevention and resolution
• monitoring developments in the international of conflict, socio-economic development and
environment integration, humanitarian assistance and
• communicating government’s policy positions human resource development.
• developing and advising government on policy • International agreements (multilateral and
options, creating mechanisms and avenues bilateral): International agreements concluded
for achieving objectives by South Africa in terms of sections 231(2) and
• protecting South Africa’s sovereignty and 231(3) of the Constitution.
territorial integrity
• contributing to the creation of an enabling Budget, funding and trade
international environment for South African DIRCO’s national budget allocation for 2015/16
business was R6,5 billion.
• sourcing developmental assistance Medium-term expenditures, according to the
• assisting South African citizens abroad. National Budget 2015/16, was R5 698,6 million
DIRCO’s strategic objectives are to: in 2015/16, R5 943,6 million in 2016/17 and
• protect and promote South African national R6 543,3 million in 2017/18.
interests and values through bilateral and
multilateral interactions President Jacob Zuma led the South African delegation
• conduct and coordinate South Africa’s interna-
tional relations and promote its foreign policy
objectives
i to the 7th BRICS Summit held in Ufa, Russia from 8 to
9 July 2015. The theme for the 7th Summit was “BRICS
Partnership – a Powerful Factor of Global Development”.
A number of meetings was held in the run-up to the
• monitor international developments and advise summit. These included:
government on foreign policy and related • The BRICS Ministers of Finance and Central Bank
domestic matters Governors met in Moscow prior to the summit on 7 July
• contribute to the formulation of international 2015.
law and enhance respect for its provisions • The first meeting of the BRICS Board of Governors of
• promote multilateralism to secure a the New Development Bank took place in Moscow on
7 July 2015.
rules-based international system
• The BRICS Ministers of Trade and Industry met in
• maintain a modern, effective department Moscow on 7 July 2015.
driven to pursue excellence • The BRICS Business Council and its Working Groups
• provide a world-class and uniquely South met in Moscow on 6 July 2015 and then proceeded
African state protocol service. to Ufa for a meeting with the BRICS leaders on 9 July
2015.
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 272International Relations
Expenditure increased from R485,1 million Programme of Action on Small Arms and Light
in 2014/15 to R523,1 million in 2015/16 at a Weapons and efforts aimed at establishing an
nominal growth rate of 8%. The increase in arms trade treaty.
expenditure is mainly due to the depreciation of
the rand against foreign currencies. Role players
South Africa increased its presence on the South Africa has key partnerships such as the
continent from seven diplomatic and consular Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, Africa’s
missions in 1994 to 47 in 2015. Consequently, comprehensive partnership with India, and the
the country’s trade on the continent increased 39 Korea-Africa Forum. South Africa’s Government
times from R11,4 billion in 1994 to R385 billion spares no effort in strengthening the progressive
in 2015. The target is half a trillion rand trade forums of the South such as the Non-Aligned
with Africa by 2019. As at the end of 2015, 20% Movement (NAM), G77+China, Africa-South
of the country’s trade was conducted within the America Summit and the New Asian-African
African continent. Strategic Partnership (NAASP). These forums
With regard to Asia and the Middle East, South have demonstrated that they are trusted allies
Africa’s trade and investment in these regions and partners in South Africa’s aim for a better
have grown considerably and continue to do world and Africa.
so. In 1994, trade with Asia and the Middle East
combined was approximately R45 billion and has African Union (AU)
increased to approximately R760 billion for Asia The AU emerged from the Organisation of
and R116 billion with the Middle East. Working African Unity (OAU), which was established in
together with other government departments, 1963 with a charter signed by 32 countries in
DIRCO can achieve a trillion rand trade with this Addis Ababa. The OAU, which was officially
region by 2019. disbanded in July 2002, was replaced by the AU
with 54 members who pledged to work for closer
Foreign policy political integration and unity among African
By prioritising Africa and promoting its renewal, countries.
development and reconstruction, South Africa Africa will never again tolerate change
is contributing to building a better Africa, which of governments through undemocratic and
is the central foreign policy goal of the South unconstitutional means. Africa is on a growth
African Government. trajectory, which must be maintained to ensure
After the democratic elections in 1994, South that the people of African are truly emancipated
Africa ceased to be the pariah of the world; it from the wrath of underdevelopment, poverty
regained its rightful place in Africa, in the UN and and hunger. The strengthened African Union
in the family of nations. South Africa emerged Commission (AUC) is central in driving the
as a democratic country into a fundamentally African Agenda. South Africa contributed
transformed world with a visionary foreign policy towards the goal of having a strong AUC and its
that promotes relations with other countries. structure. Resources were also contributed to
hosting the Pan African Parliament.
Disarmament, non-proliferation and The continent is engaged in extensive consul-
arms control tations on its vision known as Agenda 2063,
A primary goal of South Africa’s policy on under the theme “The Africa We Want”. This
disarmament, non-proliferation and arms control vision spells out the aspirations of African
includes reinforcing and promoting the country people across all sectors and the pledges of
as a responsible producer, possessor and trader leaders, which are translated into a “Call to
of defence-related products and advanced Action” comprised of a 10-year action plan that
technologies. In this regard, the department will contain flagship projects.
continues to promote the benefits The heads of state and governments of the
that disarmament, non-proliferation and arms AU adopted Agenda 2063 at the 24th Ordinary
control hold for international peace and security, Assembly External link held in Addis Ababa,
particularly to countries in Africa. Ethiopia, from 30 to 31 January 2015.
Regarding conventional weapons, including Each AU member state, including South
small arms and light weapons, South Africa Africa, was expected to contribute to this vision
actively participates in UN efforts related to through inclusive national consultations by
the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention, the October 2015. With the adoption of the vision,
Convention on Cluster Munitions, the Certain member states will have to align their national
Conventional Weapons Convention, the UN policies with it through a process of domesti-
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 273International Relations
cation, which, in South Africa’s case, entails AU regional economic communities (RECs)
harmonising Agenda 2063 with the National The AU is the principal institution responsible
Development Plan (NDP). for promoting sustainable development at
In pursuit of the continental economic economic, social and cultural level, as well as
integration agenda, the following actions have integrating African economies.
taken place: the launch of the Southern African RECs are recognised as the building blocks
Development Community (SADC), Common of the AU, necessitating the need for their close
Market for Eastern and Southern Africa involvement in formulating and implementing all
(COMESA) and the East African Community AU programmes.
(EAC) Tripartite Free Trade Area (FTA) in June To this end, the AU must coordinate and
2015 in Egypt. This FTA, which merges 26 take decisions on policies in areas of common
countries into a free trade zone with 625 million interest to member states, as well as coordinate
people and a total gross domestic product (GDP) and harmonise policies between existing and
of US$1,6 trillion, will contribute immensely future RECs, for the gradual attainment of the
towards increasing intra-African trade. The AU’s objectives.
Tripartite FTA represents an important milestone Seven specialised technical committees are
towards the conclusion of negotiations for the responsible for the actual implementation of the
establishment of the Continental Free Trade continental socio-economic integration process,
Area. together with the Permanent Representatives
President Jacob Zuma led the South African Committee.
delegation to the 26th Ordinary Session of the South Africa’s development is intertwined
AU Assembly (AU Summit) held on 30 and with that of the southern Africa region and the
31 January 2016 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. African continent at large. The country’s efforts
The 2016 AU Summit was held under the at ramping up industrialisation should be viewed
theme “African Year of Human Rights with a within the overall framework of the SADC
particular focus on the Rights of Women”. Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap as
The theme was of extreme importance to approved by the SADC Extra-Ordinary Summit
South Africa as a country, as it marked 20 years in April 2015. South Africa seeks to industrialise
since the adoption of the Constitution of South the regional and continental economies in order
Africa (Act 108 of 1996) and the Bill of Rights to develop its own manufacturing capacity.
as well as 60 years since the historic women’s In addition, the country seeks to radically alter
march to the Union Buildings on 9 August 1956. the colonial/post-colonial pattern where Africa
was a supplier of raw materials. Africa should
AU Peace and Security Council (AUPSC) produce value-added goods for exports into the
South Africa plays an important role in efforts to global economy. It is only in this way that we can
bring about peace and stability on the continent. address the paradox of a rich-resource continent
The AUPSC is the organ of the AU in charge of inhabited by a poverty-stricken population, and
enforcing union decisions. Members are elected make a decisive break with the past.
by the AU Assembly to reflect regional balance
within Africa, as well as a variety of other criteria, New Partnership for Africa’s
including capacity to contribute militarily and Development (Nepad)
financially to the union, political will to do so, and Nepad, an AU strategic framework for
effective diplomatic presence at Addis Ababa. pan-African socio-economic development, is
The AUPSC entered into force in December both a vision and a policy framework for Africa
2003, after being ratified by the required in the 21st century. Nepad provides unique
majority of AU member states. It is made up opportunities for African countries to take full
of 15 member states and is responsible for control of their development agenda, to work
the resolution of conflict, peacekeeping and more closely together, and to cooperate more
post-conflict reconstruction and development effectively with international partners.
(PCRD) in conjunction with the UN. Nepad manages a number of programmes
In 2015, the AU Assembly unanimously and projects in six theme areas namely:
re-elected South Africa for a second consecutive • agriculture and food security
two-year term to the AUPSC. This gives the • climate change and national resource
country the opportunity to consolidate the work management
done in the past two years, including contributing • regional integration and infrastructure
to the implementation of Agenda 2063’s goal of • human development
“Silencing the Guns by 2020”. • economic and corporate governance
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 274International Relations
• cross-cutting issues, including gender, • achieving the unification of tariffs and
capacity development and information and currencies
communication technology (ICT). • establishing a free trade zone.
South Africa, as one of the initiating countries, The initial member states were Angola,
played a key role in the establishment of Nepad Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius,
and the African Peer Review Mechanism Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Tanzania,
(APRM), and hosts the Nepad Agency and Zambia and Zimbabwe. South Africa became a
APRM Secretariat in Midrand, Gauteng. member after 1994.
The APRM process is aimed at addressing South Africa has consistently sought to nurture
corruption, poor governance and inefficient regional integration at three levels: the Southern
delivery of public goods and services to the African Customs Union (Sacu), SADC and the
citizens of African countries. It encourages the Tripartite FTA between the SADC, the COMESA
adoption of policies, standards and practices that and the EAC. In particular, South Africa has
lead to political stability, high economic growth, championed a “developmental regionalism”
sustainable development and accelerated approach that combines market integration,
regional and continental economic integration cross-border infrastructure development, and
through the sharing of experiences and best policy coordination to diversify production and
practices, and is important to the sustainabilityof boost intra-African trade. South Africa contributed
Nepad. to the development of Sacu’s Five-Point Plan,
Nepad remains the main programme of which aims to transform the customs union from
reference for intra-African socio-economic and a tariffs and a revenue-sharing agreement to an
developmental relations and Africa’s partnerships integrated institution capable of promoting true
with international partners such as the European regional economic development.
Union (EU-AU) Strategic Partnership, Forum for Work in SADC continues to focus on consoli-
Africa-China Partnership, the Group of Seven dating the SADC FTA launched in 2008, before
Most Industrialised Nations plus Russia (G8), considering deeper forms of integration in the
the Tokyo International Conference on African region. The ongoing negotiations to establish
Development, the NAASP and the Organisation the Tripartite FTA will combine the three major
for Economic Cooperation and Development. regional economic communities of 600 million
Through Nepad, Africa has expanded its people and combined GDP of USD$1 trillion, as
development priorities. Development and funding building blocks towards continental integration.
in agriculture, ICT, science and technology, Once established, the T-FTA will contribute to
infrastructure and education has improved the economies of scale, the building of new distri-
quality of life for millions of Africans. bution channels, value addition, and manufac-
turing in Africa.
Southern African Development One of the key areas to stimulate regional
Community economic development has been the finali-
The SADC developed from the Southern sation of the SADC Regional Infrastructure
African Development Coordination Conference Development Master Plan, which will focus
(SADCC), which was established in 1980. It on the following six priority sectors: energy,
adopted its current name during a summit held transport, ICT/communications, water, tourism
in Windhoek, Namibia, in August 1992. Before and meteorology.
1992, the aim of the SADCC was to forge close In 2014, South Africa was elected to chair
economic cooperation with southern African the SADC. South Africa led the SADC Election
countries excluding South Africa, to bolster their Observer missions in Mozambique, Botswana
economies and reduce their dependence on the and Namibia.
South African economy. In February 2015, South Africa hosted an
From 1992, when the organisation became Extraordinary Summit of the SADC Double
the SADC, its mandate changed to the following: Troika in Pretoria. The Extraordinary Summit
• establishing an open economy based considered the political and security situation in
on equality, mutual benefit and balanced Lesotho ahead of the February 2015 elections.
development A South African Government delegation led
• breaking down tariff barriers by the Minister of International Relations and
• promoting trade exchanges and mutual Cooperation, Ms Maite Nkoana-Mashabane,
investment which also included Trade and Industry Minister
• realising the free movement of goods, Rob Davies and Deputy Finance Minister
personnel and labour service Mcebisi Jonas, took part in a meeting of the
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 275International Relations
SADC Council of Ministers in Gaborone on 14 to undemocratic, unrepresentative and unfair to
15 August 2015. developing nations and small states, which
The meeting in Gaborone was in preparation cannot remain beholden indefinitely to the will of
for the 35th Ordinary SADC Summit of Heads an unrepresentative minority on most important
of State and Government held from 17 to 18 issues of international peace and security.
August 2015. Other notable achievements that South Africa
The theme for the summit was “Accelerating championed are:
Industrialisation of SADC Economies through • setting the UN members the target to celebrate
Transformation of Natural Endowment and the 70th Anniversary of the UN in 2015, with
Improved Human Capital”. a reformed, more inclusive, democratic and
representative UNSC
United Nations • witnessing the birth of the new State of South
The UN occupies the central and indispensable Sudan.
role within the global system of governance. The issue of Western Sahara remains an
South Africa looks to the UN to advance the important challenge for the AU and for peace
global development agenda and address and stability in the region.
under-development, social integration, full
employment and decent work for all and UN Economic and Social Council (Ecosoc)
the eradication of poverty globally. Through Ecosoc is a premier organ of the UN responsible
participation in multilateral forums, South Africa for economic and social development matters of
also upholds the belief that the resolution of the world.
international conflicts should be peaceful and in South Africa assumed membership of
accordance with the centrality of the UN Charter Ecosoc on 1 January 2013, giving the country
and the principles of international law. South an opportunity to be located at the centre of
Africa was one of the 51 founding member of the debate on the global development agenda,
the UN in 1945. Since then, UN membership including the acceleration of the implementation
has grown to 193 states. After being suspended of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).
in 1974, owing to international opposition to the The country’s three-year membership term
policy of apartheid, South Africa was readmitted ended in 2015.
to the UN in 1994 following its transition to
democracy. UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organisation (Unesco)
UN General Assembly South Africa is an active participant in key
President Zuma, led the South African delegation Unesco governance structures such as the
to the 70th Session of the UN General Assembly General Conference and the World Heritage
(UNGA 70), which took place in New York in Committee, and has previously served on the
the United States of America (USA) from 28 executive board.
September to 3 October. Since its return to Unesco, South Africa has
The UNGA is the main deliberative, policy- also ratified a number of Unesco conventions
making and representative organ of the UN. including the Convention Concerning the
Comprising all 193 members of the United Protection of the World Cultural and Natural
Nations, it provides a unique forum for multilateral Heritage (July 1997), Convention Against
discussion of the full spectrum of international Discrimination in Education (March 2000), the
issues covered by the Charter of the UN. International Convention Against Doping in
Sport (November 2006) and the Convention on
UN Security Council (UNSC) the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of
South Africa has served on the United Nations Cultural Expressions (December 2006).
Security Council (UNSC) as non-permanent South Africa also acceded to the Convention
member for two terms. More than two-thirds of for the Protection of Cultural Property in the
the UNSC’s agenda focuses on African issues. Event of Armed Conflict with Regulations for the
During its second term, one of South Africa’s Execution of the Convention (December 2003).
biggest achievements was the adoption by the National interaction with Unesco’s various
UNSC of resolution 2033 (2012), which South areas of work is coordinated through the South
Africa initiated, to formalise, strengthen and African National Commission for Unesco, whose
promote the UNSC’s cooperation with regional secretariat is hosted by the Department of Basic
organisations, particularly the AUPSC. Close on Education.
70 years of its existence, the UNSC still remains
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 276International Relations
UN Human Rights Council body.
South Africa played a leadership role in South Africa also takes part in the WHO’s
several inter-governmental processes at the Regional Committee for Africa, which convenes
UN pertaining to human rights and social annually after the WHA to reflect on the decisions
development issues. It is also the current Chair taken at the WHA and plan for the following
of the Open-ended Working Group on Private year’s WHA.
Military and Security Companies (PMSCs), Through its participation in these structures,
which objective is to elaborate a legally binding South Africa contributes to setting international
regulatory framework and to ensure that PMSCs norms and making decisions on key issues
are held accountable for their activities. regarding global and public health.
South Africa is also the current chair of
the Adhoc Committee on the Elaboration of Group of 20 (G20)
Complementary Standards to the International The 2015 G20 Antalya summit was the 10th
Convention for the Elimination of All Forms annual meeting of the G20 heads of government
of Racial Discrimination aimed at combating or heads of state. It was held in Antalya, Turkey
contemporary forms of racism. on 15 to 16 November 2015.
South Africa was one of 14 new member The main theme of the summit was to discuss
states elected to serve on the UN Human Rights the world’s biggest political and security crises,
Council from January 2014 until December including Syria and the mass migration of
2016. The election coincided with the country’s refugees.
celebration of its 20th year of democracy and The summit was mostly focused on political
reaffirmed its commitment to the achievement of rather than economic issues due to the terrorist
human rights for all its citizens, the citizens of attacks in Paris, in which 132 people were killed.
Africa, and the citizens of the world. As an organisation dealing with global issues of
financial and economic cooperation, the G20
UN-South Africa Strategic Cooperation decided to change the format of the session.
Framework (UNSCF) In addition to the pre-planned theme, the parties
The UN-South Africa Strategic Cooperation adopted a declaration on fighting terrorism. The
Framework (UNSCF), 2013 – 17, is the overall heads of state expressed their readiness to fight
framework for the work of the UN system in terrorism in all its forms, including taking steps to
South Africa. DIRCO and the UN Country resist economic terrorism.
Team developed the SCF in 2012 through a Some other issues, such as how the world
participatory and consultative process. The working together to boost the world economy
SCF includes the presentation of the situation were also discussed during the conference.
in South Africa overall, as reflected in the New Delegates includes heads of state and
Growth Path, the NDP: Vision for 2030, as well representatives from Argentina, Australia,
as the Medium Term Strategic Framework and Brazil, Canada. China, France, Germany, India,
the 2010 MDGs Country Report. These have Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi
informed the identification of four pillars of UN Arabia, South Africa, Republic of Korea, Turkey,
cooperation, which are: inclusive growth and United Kingdom, United States of America as
decent work; sustainable development; human well as two representatives of the European
capabilities; and governance and participation. Union. Special invitees included representatives
In addition, a brief analysis of past cooperation from Azerbaijan, Malaysia, Senegal, Singapore,
and lessons learned, including those identified in Spain and Zimbabwe.
the 2009 Joint Evaluation of the Role and Contri- In Antalya, G20 leaders committed to
bution of the UN System in South Africa, and the undertake a number of concrete steps to boost
planned results to be achieved by all partners growth and job creation, by channeling their
in the South African context, with the UN contri- efforts towards:
butions indicated at the outcomes level. The • bolstering counterterrorism efforts
SCF also considers the role of South Africa on • promoting international norms of responsible
the continent and globally. state behavior in cyberspace
• achieving strong, sustainable and balanced
World Health Organisation (WHO) global economic growth
South Africa is one of the 194 member states • addressing the global refugee crisis
that constitute the WHO. The country takes part • promoting high-standard trade and investment
in the annual World Health Assembly (WHA), • strengthening the global financial system
which is the WHO’s supreme decision-making • a modern, fair international tax system
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 277International Relations
• fighting corruption and promoting transparency China and its Africa Regional Centre will be
• advancing global health and the global health established in South Africa concurrently. Further
security agenda significant initiatives in respect of strengthening
• supporting sustainable development intra-BRICS economic cooperation, included the
• addressing climate change and boosting clean signing of the Memorandum of Understanding
energy. on Cooperation among BRICS Export Credit
The Youth 20 Summit 2015 took place in Istanbul, and Guarantees Agencies that will improve
Turkey from 15 to 21 August. The topics of the the support environment for increasing trade
Y20 were: opportunities among the BRICS countries. In
• Youth Unemployment BRICS, the member states are equal in access,
• Youth and Education in the 21st Century shareholding, and representation in leadership
• Youth’s Contribution to Peace positions.
Russia hosted the group’s seventh summit in
Brazil, Russia, India, China, South July 2015.
Africa trade alliance (BRICS)
South Africa’s BRICS membership will help the India, Brazil and South Africa (IBSA)
country and the continent to address its socio- trade alliance
economic challenges. The IBSA Dialogue Forum brings together three
Some of the BRICS achievements include the large pluralistic, multicultural and multiracial
following: societies from three continents as a purely
• BRICS Inter-Bank Cooperation Mechanism South-South grouping of like-minded countries,
to which the Development Bank of Southern committed to inclusive sustainable development,
Africa (DBSA) in pursuit of the well-being for their peoples and
• Master Agreement on Extending Credit Facility those of the developing world. The principles,
in Local Currency where the DBSA would norms and values underpinning the IBSA
have to consider providing the other Member Dialogue Forum are participatory democracy,
Banks, respect for human rights, the Rule of Law and
• Multilateral Letter of Credit Confirmation the strengthening of multilateralism.
Facility Agreement, which will require the The intra-IBSA trade is a clear indication of
DBSA to either guarantee performance against the potential and success of IBSA as the initial
the obligations to a South African exporter, or trade target of US$ 25 billion by 2015 was likely
in the event of South African imports to be overshot given the 2014 intra-IBSA trade
• Multilateral Agreement on Infrastructure figure of US$23 billion. IBSA also partnered with
Co-Financing for Africa developing countries, especially least-developed
• Multilateral Agreement on Green Economy
Cooperation Co-Financing The Deputy Minister of International Relations and
• The establishment of the BRICS Business
Council and BRICS Think Tanks Council.
The BRICS grouping achieved another strategic
i Cooperation, Ms Nomaindiya Mfeketo, led the South
African delegation at the Indian Ocean Rim Association
(IORA) Blue Economy Conference in Mauritius from 2 – 3
September 2015.
milestone in February 2014, when the science, IORA was formally launched in 1997, and is a
technology and innovation ministers of the cooperative community of twenty (20) coastal states
five countries met in South Africa to formalise bordering the Indian Ocean, and six non-member Dialogue
and institutionalise cooperation in science, Partner States. South Africa served as Vice Chair of IORA
technology and innovation under the BRICS in October 2015, and will chair the Association from
framework. October 2017 – 2019.
The inaugural Blue Economy Conference took place in
South Africa, as the previous Chair,
the context of IORA having decided to make the Ocean
successfully brought to fruition all the key Economy/Blue Economy a strategic priority. South Africa
outcomes adopted at the 5th BRICS Summit was one of the conference initiating member countries.
in Durban 2014. As such, in Brazil, the The conference was an opportune platform to concep-
Agreement establishing the New Development tualse the Blue Economy and enable cooperation on
Bank and the Treaty for the creation of the exploiting the vast ocean resources. Key features of
BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement were agenda entailed analysing the existing capacities of the
signed. These agreements signal a historic member states in the following:
and seminal moment since the creation of • Fisheries and Aquaculture
• Renewable Ocean Energy
the Bretton Woods international financial
• Seaport and Shipping
architecture. The headquarters of the New • Seabed Exploration and Minerals.
Development Bank will be located in Shanghai,
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 278International Relations
countries and PCRD countries through the IBSA The Deputy Minister of International Relations
Facility for Hunger and Poverty Alleviation (IBSA and Cooperation, Ms Nomaindiya Mfeketo, led
Fund) in development projects that will benefit a South African delegation to the 15th Indian
those countries. IORA Council of Ministers on 23 October 2015
IBSA continues to play its unique role as a in Padang, Indonesia.
body bringing together three democracies of the At this meeting, Indonesia succeeded Australia
South from three continents. as IORA Chair for the period 2015 – 2017. Signif-
The realisation of a trilateral alliance between icantly, South Africa became the Vice Chair and
IBSA stems from three commonalities between a member of the Association’s Troika, along with
the three countries, namely: all three countries Indonesia and Australia. South Africa will Chair
are vibrant democracies, they share common IORA from 2017 – 2019.
views on various global issues, and are
substantial emerging economies within their Commonwealth
subregions. The modern Commonwealth is a voluntary
Apart from promoting South-South dialogue, association of 54 independent member coun-
IBSA also fosters inter-regional cooperation. tries. Membership is diverse and includes
The engagement process of the IBSA developed and developing countries in Africa,
countries takes place on three levels, namely: Asia, the Americas, the Caribbean, Europe and
heads of state and government, government-to- the South Pacific.
government and people-to-people cooperation. Since rejoining the Commonwealth in 1994,
South Africa has interacted closely with the work
Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) of the Commonwealth contributing politically,
South Africa is one of the founding member financially and in terms of capacity and expertise
states of the IORA, which was launched in to the work of the organisation.
Mauritius in March 1997. There are 21 member
states and seven dialogue partners; the Indian Non-Aligned Movement (NAM)
Ocean Tourism Organisation and the Indian The Islamic Republic of Iran is chairing the NAM
Ocean Research Group has observer status. from 2012 to 2015. The NAM consists of 120
IORA, formerly known as the Indian Ocean member states. It is the largest political grouping
Rim Initiative and Indian Ocean Rim Association of countries outside the UN, making it an
for Regional Cooperation, consists of coastal important lobby group of developing countries in
states bordering the Indian Ocean. global affairs.
The objectives of IORA are to:
• promote sustainable growth and balanced G77 & China
development of the region and member states The Group of 77 (G77) was established on
• focus on those areas of economic cooperation 15 June 1964 by 77 developing countries,
which provide maximum opportunities for signatories of the “Joint Declaration of the
development, shared interest and mutual Seventy-Seven Developing Countries” issued at
benefits the end of the first session of the UN Conference
• promote liberalisation, remove impediments on Trade and Development, held in Geneva,
and lower barriers towards a freer and Switzerland. Although the members of the G77
enhanced flow of goods, services, investment, have increased to 134 countries, including China
and technology within the Indian Ocean rim. as the associate member, the original name was
IORA members undertake projects for economic retained due to its historic significance.
cooperation relating to trade facilitation and The G77 and China is the largest intergovern-
liberalisation, promotion of foreign investment, mental organisation of developing countries in
scientific and technological exchanges, the UN system, and it provides the means for
tourism, movement of natural persons and countries of the South to promote their collective
service providers on a non-discriminatory economic interests and enhance their joint
basis; and the development of infrastructure negotiating capacity on all major international
and human resources, poverty alleviation, economic issues within the UN system and
promotion of maritime transport and related promote South-South cooperation.
matters, cooperation in the fields of fisheries As a member of the G77 and China, South
trade, research and management, aquaculture, Africa participates in the work of the group
education and training, energy, IT, health, to ensure its strength, unity and cohesion in
protection of the environment, agriculture, pursuance of the vision of a fair and equitable
disaster management. multilateral system.
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 279International Relations
International relations energy, transport, agriculture, tourism and water.
South Africa and Africa With South Africa being Lesotho’s only
As South Africa undergoes its second transition, neighbour, the economies of the two countries
Africa also continues to rise. Africa’s renaissance are interdependent. South African companies
will in years ahead be defined by the Africa have a significant presence in Lesotho and are
Agenda 2063. involved in various sectors such as housing,
food and beverages, construction, retail, hotels
Relations with southern Africa and leisure, banking, and medical services.
Angola The Lesotho Highlands Water Project has
South Africa and Angola continue to work been in operation for over 20 years and supplies
together in maintaining peace, stability, regional South Africa with about 780 million cubic meters
integration and the promotion of the SADC of water a year. When fully operational, Phase 2
Agenda. Both countries are still part of respec- of the project will substantially increase the
tively the SADC Troika and the SADC Organ on volume of water supplied to South Africa.
Politics, Defence and Security Troika. President Zuma attended the inauguration of
Angola is one of South Africa’s major trading the Prime Minister-elect Mr Pakalitha Mosisili of
partners in Africa with almost 90% of Angolan the Kingdom of Lesotho on 17 March 2015.
exports to South Africa being petroleum-related In September 2015, Home Affairs Minister
products. Malusi Gigaba announced measures to improve
President Zuma undertook an official visit to movement between the Kingdom of Lesotho and
Angola in November 2015 to attend the 40th South Africa. This was after bilateral negotiations
Anniversary of the Independence of Angola. between the ministers of home affairs of the two
countries and their senior officials in Lesotho,
Botswana during the official visit of Minister Gigaba from
South Africa and Botswana cooperate on a 21 to 22 September.
wide range of areas, including transport, trade
and investment, health, education, environ- Malawi
mental affairs, water, science and technology, South Africa and Malawi share strong historical
agriculture, justice, immigration, energy, finance, political, economic and cultural ties and warm
culture, security and sport. relations in the context of regional integration
In August 2015, President Zuma led the South and intra-Africa trade.
African delegation at the 35th Ordinary SADC
Summit of Heads of State and Government in Mozambique
Gaborone, Botswana. In May 2015, President Zuma visited
Mozambique on a two-day state visit. President
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Zuma and Mozambique President Filipe Nyusi
On 16 October 2015, President Zuma undertook held successful talks and discussed issues of
a working visit to The DRC, where he co-chaired mutual interest; in particular, bilateral, regional
a Bi-National Commission (BNC) with his and continental cooperation.
counterpart President Joseph Kabila Kabange The issue of cooperation was high on the
of The DRC. agenda and both presidents agreed to establish
During the BNC Summit, the two heads of a binational commission which will enable
state reviewed progress made on bilateral continuous monitoring and implementation of
programmes during the first decade of the decisions taken.
BNC. These included cooperation projects in In June 2015, a South African business
the following fields: politics and governance; delegation visited Mozambique to seek trade
defence and security; economy, finance and and investment opportunities. The delegation
infrastructure; and social and humanitarian was participating in an Outward Trade and
affairs. Investment Mission to Mozambique, organised
The 9th SA-DRC BNC was preceded by a by the Department of Trade and Industry.
ministerial meeting on 15 October 2015 and a In July 2015, Mozambican delegates took
senior officials’ meeting from 13 to 14 October part in a Forestry Trade and Investment mission
2015. hosted by the Department of Trade and Industry
in Nelspruit, Mpumalanga.
Lesotho In September 2015 President Zuma returned
Bilateral cooperation between South Africa and to Mozambique to unveil the Matola Monument
Lesotho includes trade and investment, security, and Interpretative Centre as part of the Heritage
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 280International Relations
Month programme, and also to pay homage to Tanzania
the sacrifices and contributions made by the South Africa established formal diplomatic
Mozambicans towards a free, non-racial and relations with Tanzania in 1994, immediately
democratic South Africa. after attaining its freedom. The bilateral relations
In October 2015, President Zuma welcomed have been characterised by high-level interaction
President Nyusi to South Africa and announced between the two countries aimed at consoli-
the launch of the South Africa-Mozambique dating and strengthening political, economic and
BNC. social cooperation. South Africa is one of the top
10 major investors in Tanzania and accounts
Namibia for approximately 10% of total investment in
The economies of South Africa and Namibia Tanzania. South African exports are concentrated
are interlinked with South Africa being one of predominantly in the areas of manufacturing,
Namibia’s major trading partners. including machinery, mechanical appliances,
Namibia imports 80% of its consumables from paper, rubber products, vehicles, iron and steel,
South Africa. South African companies have services and technology.
a large presence in Namibia and are involved On 31 May 2015, President Zuma,
in various sectors such as housing, food and accompanied by Minister Nkoana-Mashabane,
beverages, construction, hotels and leisure, participated in the EAC Heads of State Summit in
banking, and medical services. Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. The summit discussed
South Africa and Namibia enjoy strong and the political and security situation in Burundi.
fraternal relations that are characterised by Tanzanian President and current Chair of the
regular and increasing interaction at all levels. EAC, President Jakaya Kikwete, extended an
Deputy President Cyril Ramaphosa attended invitation to President Zuma to participate in the
the inauguration of President-elect, Dr Hage summit as special guest, in recognition of the
Geingob on 21 March 2015 in Windhoek, pivotal role President Zuma had played in the
Namibia. The inauguration ceremony coincided negotiations that succeeded in bringing peace
with the 25th Independence Anniversary and stability to Burundi following the civil war in
celebrations of Namibia. that country.
In May 2015, Namibian President Geingob and In October 2015, President Zuma hosted
First Lady Monica Geingos met with President President Kikwete as part of a working visit to
Zuma as part of a working visit to South Africa. South Africa.
The two leaders were expected to discuss
bilateral cooperation between Namibia and Zambia
South Africa and also to exchange views on South Africa and Zambia maintain solid
regional and international developments. economic cooperation as evidenced by the
As part of a working visit, President Zuma presence of several South African companies
attended the official opening ceremony of the in Zambia. Improved cooperation in a variety
Sacu headquarters on 12 November 2015 in of areas such as air services and infrastructural
Windhoek, Namibia. development present economic opportunities to
the South African private sector and parastatals.
Swaziland On 24 February 2015, President Zuma
The Kingdom of Swaziland and South Africa received his counterpart, President Edgar
share common borders and have very strong Chagwa Lungu of the Republic of Zambia on
common cultural links. Since South Africa’s a courtesy visit to South Africa, in the latter’s
re-entry to the Commonwealth, relations have capacity a Chairperson of SADC Organ on
been conducted at high-commissioner level. Politics, Defence and Security. This was the first
Both countries are members of key visit to South Africa by His Excellency President
sub-regional, regional and international organi- Lungu since his election on 20 January 2015.
sations, including the Sacu, the SADC, the AU,
the Commonwealth and the UN. Zimbabwe
A bilateral agreement between Swaziland and South Africa and Zimbabwe have a common
South Africa provides a mechanism for the two and long history of regional affiliation and
countries to cooperate in areas of mutual benefit, cultural ties. Zimbabwe is one of South Africa’s
ensuring that healthy relations are maintained main trade partners in Africa and several South
and further developed. African companies operate in Zimbabwe in
sectors such as mining, tourism, agriculture,
banking, manufacturing and retail.
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 281International Relations
April 2015 marked the first state visit to South embassy in Addis Ababa. The two countries have
Africa by President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe a number of bilateral agreements in place that
since 1994. establish a regulatory framework to facilitate
South Africa and Zimbabwe elevated bilateral political, economic and social interaction such
relations with the signing of five agreements set as an agreement on the avoidance of double
to benefit both countries: taxation. The umbrella agreement provides
• a BNC Agreement to be led by the two heads for the establishment of a Joint Ministerial
of state. Commission that will meet every two years.
• a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
on diplomatic consultations, which would Indian Ocean islands
establish a mechanism for regular diplomatic South Africa’s political, economic and diplomatic
talks on issues such as strengthening bilateral relations with the Comoros, Madagascar,
relations, security and cooperation in Africa Mauritius and Seychelles remain strong.
and other issues of mutual interest In October 2015, Deputy Minister Luwellyn
• an agreement on cooperation on water Landers concluded a successful visit to the
resources management, including the Republic of Madagascar.
establishment of a joint water commission
to enhance cooperation in water resources Relations with central Africa
planning, development and management in Gabon
the spirit of mutual understanding and benefit South Africa and Gabon have a legal framework
• an agreement regarding mutual assistance through a cooperation agreement.
between customs administrations between the
two countries, which would further cooperation Democratic Republic of São Tomé and
towards the establishment of a one-stop Príncipe
border post Diplomatic relations between São Tomé and
• an MoU on trade cooperation. Príncipe and South Africa were established in
May 1994.
Uganda
Relations between South Africa and Uganda Republic of the Congo
date back to the time of the struggle against Since the establishment of formal relations,
apartheid when Uganda provided support to South Africa and the Repubplic of Congo
and solidarity with the South African liberation have enjoyed cordial bilateral relations that
movement. are structured through the South Africa-Congo
Bilateral cooperation between the countries Joint Commission for Cooperation (JCC) as a
includes trade and investment, defence and mechanism to monitor and guide the implemen-
security, agriculture, water and environmental tation of agreements.
affairs, social development, public works and
science and technology. Equatorial Guinea
In August 2015, the president of the Chamber
Kenya of Commerce, Forestry and Agriculture of Bioko,
South Africa and Kenya occupy key roles in their Gregorio Boho Camo, accompanied by his
respective regions on the continent. Relations deputies, received a South African business
between the two countries were upgraded to full delegation on an official visit to Equatorial
diplomatic status on 12 April 1994. Guinea.
In June 2015, Deputy President Ramaphosa
undertook a working visit to Kenya. Cameroon
Cameroon is the economic hub of the Central
Ethiopia African Region and exports commodities to
Bilateral economic relations with Ethiopia were most countries of the zone. The seaport of
revived in 1995, when South Africa opened an Doulla in Cameroon is used to export goods
to landlocked countries in the region such as
South Africa is the sixth-largest Commonwealth country by Chad and the Central Africa Republic (CAR).
i population, after India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Bangladesh and
the UK.
On 9 March 2015, Commonwealth countries celebrated
Commonwealth Day under the theme “A Young Common-
Many South African companies have already
seized business opportunities there. Cameroon
is a member of the AU, has adopted Nepad
programmes and subscribes to the MDGs. In
wealth”.
pursuit of South Africa’s regional economic
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 282International Relations
integration and developmental agenda for the The United Kingdom (UK) is the largest source of foreign
continent, Cameroon has been identified as a
strategic partner.
Guinea
i direct investment into South Africa, worth R772 billion.
There are approximately 115 British companies active in
South Africa and they have created close to 20 000 jobs
in the period January 2008 to April 2014. The UK also
remains the largest destination for South African exports
President Zuma undertook a working and in Europe, worth R37,6 billion. Imports from the UK into
friendly visit to the Republic of Guinea from South Africa are stood at R35.5 billion in 2014. Total trade
12 to 13 January 2015. During this visit, the increased by 13,7% from 2013 to 2014.
two presidents exchanged views on bilateral,
regional and international issues of common Ambassador of Rwanda, the Military Attaché and
interest. other functionaries in the Rwanda Diplomatic
At bilateral level, the two heads of state Mission in Pretoria are in place and functioning
expressed satisfaction at the excellent normally.
relations of friendship and cooperation existing Regrettably, the Rwandan Government
between the two countries and reaffirmed their reciprocated disproportionately by expelling all
commitment to reinforce and consolidate them South African diplomats except the Ambassador
by regular holding of the JCC. thus making the work of the mission in Rwanda
difficult as it cannot discharge its services that
Central African Republic South Africans and Rwandans normally receive.
In April 2014, the AU welcomed the establishment
of a UN peacekeeping operation in the CAR. Relations with North and West Africa
The UNSC adopted a resolution during the and the Horn of Africa
same month authorising the establishment Algeria
of a nearly 12 000-strong UN peacekeeping South Africa and Algeria continue to work
operation – the UN Multidimensional Integrated hand-in-hand in building a stronger AU and its
Stabilisation Mission in the CAR – to protect structures. To this end, regional developments
civilians and facilitate humanitarian access in the such as the Mali and CAR crises and the general
war-torn country. security situation in the Sahel and Maghreb
The mission took over the responsibilities of regions also featured prominently in the consul-
the African-led International Support Mission tations with President Bouteflika.
from September 2014. The establishment of the In March 2015, the President Abdelaziz
new UN mission would mark a new step in the Bouteflika of Algeria hosted President Zuma for
international community’s efforts to assist the a three-day state visit.
CAR overcome the challenges confronting it. South Africa and Algeria enjoy excellent
bilateral cooperation through the framework of
Burundi the South Africa-Algeria BNC. President Zuma
President Zuma took over from President Nelson and President Bouteflika convened the 6th
Mandela in 2000 as the mediator in the Burundi Session of the BNC.
peace talks. Then Deputy President Zuma led
the protracted but successful mediation process, Saharawi
which led to a resolution of the Burundi conflict Formal diplomatic relations were established
and the ushering of a new government in 2005. at ambassador level in 2004. South Africa
The highlights of the mediation process led by continues to render political support and
President Zuma included a key achievement for humanitarian assistance to the Saharawi
the African continent, the deployment of South Arab Democratic Republic. Under the African
African peacekeeping troops in Burundi for Renaissance Fund, South Africa coordinates
seven years, 2003 to 2009. several projects that aim to benefit the
Saharawi population. These include a contri-
Rwanda bution to a landmine clearance project in the
In March 2014, the South African Government east of the territory and construction of a sport
expelled four Rwandan diplomats and one from development complex in the territory.
Burundi for violating their status. Investigations South Africa’s international solidarity and
revealed direct links between these diplomats support for the self-determination of Western
and criminal activities. The action targeted only Sahara is based on the following principles:
those who violated the Vienna Convention, • The principles of multilateralism and interna-
Article 41 and South Africa’s own Diplomatic tional legality in seeking a just, lasting and
Immunities and Privileges Act, 2001. The mutually acceptable political solution, which
South Africa Yearbook 2015/16 283International Relations
will provide for the self-determination of the Niger
people of Western Sahara. Following her visit to Mauritania, Minister
• The centrality of the AU and UN in the Nkoana-Mashabane undertook a working visit to
resolution of the conflict. the Republic of Niger at the end of August 2015.
• The Constitutive Act of the AU, in particular the She met with Minister of Foreign Affairs,
principle of the sanctity of inherited colonial International Cooperation, African Integration
borders in Africa and the right of peoples of and Nigeriens Living Abroad of the Republic
former colonial territories to self-determination of Niger, Ms Aïchatou Boulama Kane. The two
and independence. ministers evaluated progress made in bilateral
• Respect of international human rights law in cooperation between the two countries and
the occupied territories, notable the right to discussed various multilateral and regional
freedom of association, assembly, movement issues of mutual interest.
and expression. Minister Nkoana-Mashabane also paid a
• Respect of international humanitarian law courtesy call on the Prime Minister of Niger, Mr
and support for the provision of humanitarian Brigi Rafini, during her visit.
assistance to the Saharawi refugees in a way It is expected that the 2nd Session of the JCC
that is predictable, sustainable and timely. will be hosted by Niger during the course of
• An end to the illegal exploration and exploi- 2016.
tation of the natural resources of Western
Sahara in the illegally occupied territory and Egypt
the discouragement of the involvement of South Africa and Egypt have created a political
foreign companies in such activities. environment that is conducive to business.
• Support for the integration and stability of the In April 2015, President Zuma arrived in Cairo,
Maghreb Union as a building block of the AU. Egypt, for a working visit to further strengthen
and consolidate the strategic bilateral relations
Mauritania between the two countries and to reaffirm South
South Africa made a constructive contribution in Africa’s commitment through the convening of
Mauritania in support of the implementation of the the 9th Session of the JBC.
democratic roadmap undertaken by the military During June 2015, Trade and Industry Minister
transitional government following the coup d’état Rob Davies, led the South African delegation
of August 2005. These efforts contributed to the at the 3rd Summit of the Tripartite in Sharm
restoration of constitutional order and stability in el-Sheikh. The summit launched the COMESA-
Mauritania leading to South Africa’s support for EAC-SADC Tripartite FTA on 10 June 2015.
the lifting of the AU suspension of the country on
10 April 2007. Libya
In terms of economic relations, progress has In January 2016, President Zuma received
been recorded between the two countries in a delegation from the National Salvation
the areas of fisheries and mining. In addition, Government of Libya, led by its Prime Minister,
the Economic Cooperation Agreement that was Mr Khalifa Ghwill. The meeting took place
ready for signature would facilitate the opening following a request of Prime Minister Ghwill to
of trade and investment opportunities for the two brief President Zuma on the latest developments
countries. in Libya in light of the signing of the agreement
Minister Nkoana-Mashabane undertook a to establish a government of national accord,
working visit to Mauritania in August 2015. negotiated under the auspices of the UN.
During the visit, Minister Nkoana-Mashabane
met with President Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz Côte d’Ivoire
as well as Mr Yahya Ould Hademine, Prime South Africa is committed to working with the
Minister of Mauritania and Ms Khadijetou government of Côte d’Ivoire in its quest for
M’Bareck Fall, Minister-delegate for African and national unity and reconciliation.
Maghreb Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs
and Cooperation. South Sudan
The ministers discussed the status of bilateral South Sudan and South Africa upgraded the
relations between South Africa and Mauritania missions in their respective capitals to fully
and conducted the signing of agreement on the fledged embassies. By January 2014, South
establishment of a JCC, as well as an MoU on Africa had trained more than 1 600 government
regular bilateral consultations. officials from South Sudan as part of a capacity-
building programme within the context of the AU
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