Department of International Relations and Cooperation, SA

13/06/2026

WATCH | The Department of International Relations and Cooperation’s seasoned Comrades Marathon runners offered words of encouragement to our three novice runners who will be taking on the challenge for the very first time tomorrow.

Every Comrades legend started as a novice. Trust your training, stay humble, and keep putting one foot in front of the other. The road will test you, but it will also reveal your strength, resilience, and determination. Believe in yourselves, enjoy every moment of the journey, and remember that finishing is winning.

The department wish you all the best and look forward to seeing you cross the finish line. Good luck!🇿🇦

NeverGiveUp RoadToComrades

13/06/2026

WATCH| Deputy Minister Alvin Botes address the Roundtable Discussion in Richards Bay. He outlined a clear path for deepening South Africa’s international solidarity efforts.
​Deputy Minister:

✅️We must ensure the movement for Palestine
finds expression across all districts in KwaZulu-Natal, particularly to engage the rural population.

✅️Acknowledged critical role of the "Friends of
Cuban Society" and welcomed the newly appointed Ambassador, Fackri Rodriguez.

✅️Paid tribute to the former South African
Ambassador to France, Nathi Mthethwa.

✅️Emphasized that our visit to the region must. lead to the establishment of a fully functional, formal mechanism for solidarity.

13/06/2026

Remarks by Deputy Minister Alvin Botes during roundtable in Richards Bay.

In an effort to amplify the voices of the Global South, DIRCO Deputy Minister Alvin Botes convened a Roundtable discussion in Richards Bay, City of uMhlathuze Municipality in the Kwazulu-Natal Provin

12/06/2026

Ambassador of Cuba further expressed gratitude for the South African government's principled and determined stance with Cuba.
He highlighted that for over 30 years, South Africa has consistently voted against the blockade of Cuba in the United Nations and lastly acknowledged the call from Deputy Minister Alvin Botes to increase and enhance the level of interaction between the two nations, expressing hope that the current session would provide the means to do so.

12/06/2026

The Ambassador of Cuba, His Excellency Mr. Fakri Rodríguez Pinelo highlighted the deep, historical connection between Cuba and South Africa, reflecting on Cuba’s unwavering support during the struggle against apartheid. Over 10,000 Cubans came to South Africa, with more than 2,000 making the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. A powerful reminder of true international solidarity.

12/06/2026

We were honored to host a solidarity roundtable in Richards Bay, where the Ambassador of Palestine,
Her Excellency Hanan Jarrar shared a powerful message of gratitude for South Africa’s principled leadership in the pursuit of justice and accountability. South Africa’s historic action before the International Court of Justice has inspired the world, reaffirming that international law must apply equally to all.
​As we are reminded: 'When we start, we start alone, but then everyone follows.' Thank you, South Africa, for standing on the right side of history. 🇵🇸🇿🇦

12/06/2026

In his remarks at the roundtable in Richards Bay, Deputy Minister Alvin Botes said as we discuss the self-determination of the people of Palestine, it is vital to remember the historical context that predates 1948. The events of 1948, including the Nakba catastrophe and the institutionalization of racism in South Africa, remain significant in our global pursuit of justice.

12/06/2026

We are honored to have Mr. Tali Munzhedzi serving as the Programme Director for today’s Roundtable Discussion on “Strengthening Global South Solidarity for Justice, Peace, and Self-Determination,” hosted by Deputy Minister Alvin Botes at the uMhlathunze Civic Centre.
​The session commenced with insightful welcome remarks by Ms. Thembeka Mchunu (MP).

Together, we continue to champion unity and shared progress across the Global South. 🌍
​

12/06/2026

Today in Richards Bay, KZN, Deputy Minister Alvin Botes is hosting a critical roundtable discussion: “Strengthening Global South Solidarity for Justice, Peace and Self-Determination.”
​Key voices from the Palestine Embassy and the Cuban Embassy join us to reaffirm our shared commitments.

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