Minister Naledi Pandor to Deliver 2023/24 International Relations and Cooperation Department Budget Vote

Dr. Naledi Pandor, the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation in South Africa, will deliver a Budget Vote Speech on May 10, 2023, in Parliament. The speech will highlight the country’s foreign policy priorities for the 2023/2024 financial year. The event will showcase the nation’s achievements in the previous financial year and discuss upcoming goals and objectives in the realm of international relations and cooperation.

Deputy Ministers to Participate in Budget Vote Debate

During the Budget Vote debate, Deputy Ministers Candith Mashego-Dlamini and Alvin Botes will also provide their insights and perspectives on South Africa’s role in the global community. The discussion is expected to cover various aspects of the country’s foreign policy, including trade, security, and diplomacy.

Roundtable Discussion on Geopolitical Landscape

The day before the Budget Vote Speech, on May 9, Minister Pandor will participate in a roundtable discussion in collaboration with the South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA). The seminar will focus on the current geopolitical environment and South Africa’s role in it.

Experts to Discuss Emerging Trends, Challenges, and Opportunities

The seminar will bring together experts such as SAIIA CEO Elizabeth Sidiropoulos, Prof. Siphamandla Zondi, and Dr. Chris Lansberg from the University of Johannesburg, and Dr. Philani Mthembu from the Institute for Global Dialogue. The participants will discuss various aspects of the geopolitical landscape, including emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities that South Africa might face in its efforts to navigate the complex world of international relations.

Streamed Live on Social Media Platforms

Both the seminar and Budget Vote Speech will be streamed live on DIRCO’s social media platforms (Facebook, DIRCOza; Twitter, @DIRCO_ZA) and Ubuntu Radio (ubunturadio.com), providing a unique opportunity for individuals across the globe to stay informed about South Africa’s foreign policy priorities and initiatives. The Budget Vote Speech will also be available on the Parliament’s YouTube channel, ensuring that interested parties can access the event through various platforms.

Invitation to Attend

Members of the media are invited to attend the Foreign Policy Roundtable on May 9, 2023, at 144 Campground Rd, Newlands, Cape Town, starting at 14h30 for a 15h00 commencement. Those wishing to attend the Budget Vote Speech at the GoodHope Chamber in Parliament, Cape Town, on May 10, 2023, should arrive by 15h00.

Contributing to Stronger International Relationships

These events mark a significant step for South Africa in its ongoing efforts to strengthen its international relationships and promote cooperation on both global and regional levels. As the nation continues to face a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape, events like these provide an opportunity for policymakers and experts to discuss and develop strategies to ensure that South Africa remains an influential player on the global stage.