DIRCO's 2021/22 International Relations Quarterly Reports Overview
DIRCO's 2021/22 first and second quarterly reports presented to the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation in February 2022 highlight the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on diplomatic operations worldwide. Emphasis is placed on bilateral engagements, economic diplomacy initiatives, and the challenges faced due to travel restrictions. The reports delve into regional political engagements, economic diplomacy activities, and efforts to combat the pandemic's socio-economic repercussions.
Download Presentation
Please find below an Image/Link to download the presentation.
The content on the website is provided AS IS for your information and personal use only. It may not be sold, licensed, or shared on other websites without obtaining consent from the author. Download presentation by click this link. If you encounter any issues during the download, it is possible that the publisher has removed the file from their server.
E N D
Presentation Transcript
2021/22 FIRST AND SECOND QUARTERLY REPORTS Presentation to the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation February 2022
CONTENTS DIRCO s 2021/22 Quarters 1 and 2 Reports on: Performance Information; and Financial Information. 2
INTRODUCTION The performance information part of the report will highlight some compliance issues regarding Programme 1 while focusing mainly on Programmes 2 to 4. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected diplomatic operations across the world. Most countries introduced travel restrictions and resorted to digital means to conduct their business. 3
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS National interests are pursued through bilateral engagements such as the structured bilateral mechanisms, the high-level visits and the various economic diplomacy initiatives undertaken at the Missions; The engagements undertaken during the reporting period centred on the promotion of South Africa s National Interests and areas of mutual interest, the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as exchange of views on a wide spectrum of bilateral and global issues of concern; The impact of COVID-19-related travel restrictions, lockdown measures and the severe socio- economic impact of the pandemic required a shift in focus of South Africa s structured engagements; However, South Africa reached out to the international community to garner support for its fight against the pandemic and help stem the devastating economic fall-out; South Africa continues to accelerate its economic diplomacy through diligent work. However, initiatives were negatively impacted by the pandemic restricting physical interaction. Work is continuing on virtual platforms with the aim of growing regional, continental and global trade and investment; The Economic Diplomacy and image building activities undertaken by South African missions abroad are aimed at promoting, amongst others, the country s economic interests, exploring investment opportunities, tourism promotion, skills development and cultural exchanges; and Tourism has suffered the most as a result of the pandemic and closure of international borders. 4
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Regional political reports, including the outcomes of structured bilateral mechanisms and high-level visits Q1 & Q2: Africa Political engagements with countries in the region focused on, amongst others: Strengthening bilateral cooperation in the fields of agriculture, health - particularly dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, science and technology, regional and global politics, peace and security on the Continent, food security and agriculture, tourism, minerals and energy, transport and infrastructure; Relaxation of patent requirements to enable the Continent to manufacture the 100 million doses of vaccine, which are estimated to be required by the Continent to have an impact against the COVID-19 pandemic; Finalisation of outstanding Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and Agreements; South Africa s role as facilitator in Lesotho s political conflict; The situation in Northern Mozambique; and The impasse regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) negotiations. 5
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Regional political reports, including the outcomes of structured bilateral mechanisms and high-level visits Q1 & Q2: Americas and Europe Political engagements with countries in the region focused on, amongst others: Security situations on the African Continent; COVID-19 related matters including funding and PPE equipment, strategies to assist Africa to manufacture vaccines to combat the pandemic, support for the TRIPS waiver, post COVID-19 economic recovery; Reaffirmed the need to continue to support humanitarian efforts and for the important role of regional institutions and regional peace-making initiatives; Regional and national priorities, as well as issues to do with women s economic empowerment; Commitment to Human Rights, the importance of the Human Rights Council and the importance of the elimination of all forms of racism; The need for strengthened partnerships based on solidarity and cooperation, which is based on development priorities set by the African Union, in particular Agenda 2063; and Issues relating to the civil unrest that took place in KwaZulu-Natal and certain parts of Gauteng in July 2021. 6
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Regional political reports, including the outcomes of structured bilateral mechanisms and high-level visits Q1 & Q2: Asia and Middle East Political engagements with countries in the region focused on, amongst others: New areas of cooperation regarding youth and women s economic empowerment in digital technology, small business development and social safety net programmes; Global COVID-19 response, which included economic recovery and need for equity in access to vaccines and highlighted the need for affordability; Support for Palestinian Statehood, developments with the AU and initiatives in the UN context supported by South Africa; Diversification of trade identification of new trade opportunities for exploration; Improved access of South African agricultural and dairy products to markets in the region; Preferential Trade Agreements with South African Customs Union (SACU); Areas of cooperation between Africa and Asia with regards to climate change at COP 26; and Progress on the Mzimvubu Water and the Northern Cape Small Harbour Development Projects. 7
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Progress reports on the regional investment strategies Q1 & Q2: Africa Investment opportunities for South Africa which focus on priority interventions aimed at restoring growth and creating jobs were explored; Discussions took place against the backdrop of the negative economic situation as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and challenges experienced by SA companies operating on the Continent; Investment from African countries into South Africa remains limited, however, there is huge potential in the region for South African investment across almost all sectors; Investment outreach initiatives focused on priority interventions aimed at restoring growth and creating jobs, such as: Provision of support to SA companies operating in Africa; Exchanging views on cooperation and investment opportunities between the Continent and South Africa; Collaboration on investment promotion, facilitation and post-investment support of South African business; Support to South African investors in Zimbabwe that are facing ongoing regulatory challenges in their operations; and Meetings between South African airline companies and host governments to look at opening air passages between these countries and South Africa. Discussions focused on sectors such as: Transport, ICT, energy and renewable energy, telecommunication, manufacturing, mining, waste management. 8
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Progress reports on the regional investment strategies Q1 & Q2: Americas and Europe Investment opportunities for South Africa were explored, although economic activity has still not yet returned to normal pre-COVID levels; The unfortunate events in early July 2021 that resulted in civil unrest in parts of South Africa, are viewed in a serious negative light by important trade and investment partner countries; Investment outreach initiatives focused on priority interventions aimed at restoring growth and creating jobs, such as: Meetings, webinars and engagements with key sector stakeholders within South Africa; Showcasing opportunities that are available for new investors, and foreign investors in South Africa; Emphasis on the fact that South Africa is open for business and a call on the businesses to activate their existing networks and revisit strategies to revive interest in South African goods; Expansion of companies in the region into Africa, supporting the AfCFTA; Discussions on training and skills development in the local government systems and running of municipal establishments; Incentives and opportunities offered by the South African Government to those seeking to expand their footprint on the Continent; and Discussions focused on sectors such as: aquaculture, infrastructure, pharmaceutical industry, automotive, maritime and shipbuilding, and technology sharing. 9
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Progress reports on the regional investment strategies Q1 & Q2: Asia and Middle East Investment opportunities for South Africa were explored, although economic activity has still not yet returned to normal pre-COVID levels; The general focus of economic engagements was to explore new areas of possible investment and revision or expansion of existing investments for economic recovery post- COVID-19; Engagements with domestic stakeholders with the objective of developing an investment strategy in broader sectors with the region; Investment outreach initiatives focused on priority interventions aimed at restoring growth and creating jobs, such as: Investment aftercare with expansion of existing investment in South Africa; Investment seminars on opportunities in the ocean s economy; Participation in economic and trade conferences; Addressing concerns regarding visas/permits, Automatic Identification System (AIS) and B-BBEE; Investment and trade promotion of South African Halaal meat market; Province to Province investment engagements resulting in an investment pledge of R208 million to the Limpopo Province; and Discussions focused on sectors such as: green energy, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, construction, financial services, agro-processing and fisheries, energy, transport. 10
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Progress reports on regional trade strategies aligned with the INES Q1 & Q2: Africa The COVID-19 pandemic had a negative impact on Missions ability to promote bilateral trade, as well as the private sector or traders to do business with their counterparts in the Region; Restrictions on travel, closure of some government departments or agencies in host countries, amongst other, all played a role in the reduction of bilateral trade; Most countries are pursuing anti-import policies whilst conducting aggressive export promotion programmes; Trade discussions and initiatives focused on: Meetings with identified companies in host countries to discuss trade opportunities; Meetings with SA stakeholders to discuss opportunities to increase trade with Africa; and Attendance of trade fairs. Discussions focused on sectors such as: agriculture, civil aviation, port infrastructure, telecommunications, finance, mining, energy, fresh produce, petroleum, goods and services. 11
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Progress reports on regional trade strategies aligned with the INES Q1 & Q2: Americas and Europe Although economic activity has not yet returned to normal pre-COVID-19 levels, trade opportunities for South Africa, mostly through virtual engagements were still explored; Trade discussions and initiatives focused on: A platform that will create an opportunity for South African Women in business to interact with other women across the globe; Exploring potential areas of possible collaboration on issues of mutual interest; Coordinating and matching business interests to facilitate potential business opportunities; Discussions around expansion of trade potential of some companies using new technologies and the attraction of additional domestic and foreign investments towards the creation of new jobs, especially in the rural areas; Opportunities in collaboration on ocean economy and in ship-building with local shipyards as well as possible collaboration in pump energy; Co-investments in high priority infrastructure projects in South Africa and Africa in general; and Showcase South Africa s manufacturing capability and capacity to various stakeholders as part of advocacy efforts for the TRIPS Waiver. Discussions focused on sectors such as: aerospace, mining, defence, small business and women, education, ocean economy, industrial goods and spare parts. 12
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Progress reports on regional trade strategies aligned with the INES Q1 & Q2: Asia and Middle East Although economic activity has not yet returned to normal pre-COVID-19 levels, trade opportunities for South Africa, mostly through virtual engagements were still explored; The objective of engagements during the reporting period was to identify sectors where trade relations may be solidified and possibly increased; Trade discussions and initiatives focused on: The delayed progress on the existing Avocado Protocol which is caused by the pending verification of the South African avocado plant; Promotion of South African sweets and snacks products, the identified potential of importing and exporting of Halaal products, and the strengthening of trade partnerships; Improved methods of increasing South African citrus fruit access to the region such as pre-clearance inspection of shipments; Facilitation of market access for South African sweet potato, avocado, grapefruit and wine in the region; and Negotiations on potential Bilateral Trade Agreements for the benefit of lowering tariffs on agricultural products. Discussions focused on sectors such as: agriculture, mining, manufacturing, green economy interventions, gender equality and economic inclusion of women and youth, energy security. 13
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Regional tourism reports on the tourism-promotion events to promote South Africa as a preferred tourist destination Q1 & Q2: Africa The COVID-19 pandemic and associated travel restrictions has had a significant impact on the South African tourism industry; Tourism to South Africa from the region remains constrained due to COVID-19 restrictions, coupled with the economic impact of the pandemic; The outlook for bilateral opportunities in the tourism sector in Africa is less than positive, particular in a post-COVID-19 environment; Tourism from the region remains mainly for the purpose of seeking economic or trade opportunities in South Africa, followed by tourism focused on urban areas, shopping and medical tourism; and Tourism discussions and initiatives focused on: tourism revival and cooperation; participation in tourism workshops; and engagements with tour operators and airlines. 14
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Regional tourism reports on the tourism-promotion events to promote South Africa as a preferred tourist destination Q1 & Q2: Americas and Europe Missions in the region reported on tourism events, taking into consideration the enormous and devastating impact that the global pandemic has had on the tourism sector in South Africa; Tourism initiatives focused on the hosting of, and participation in tourism promotion events, mostly in the form of webinars where: The various South African provinces were profiled by highlighting the unique offerings and products each Province has to offer; Showcase South Africa s diverse tourism industry; Allay fears associated with travelling to a long-haul destination during the COVID-19 pandemic and address any concerns tourists may have; Information was exchanged on tourism related matters particularly around the impact of COVID-19 on the tourism sector in countries in the region; South Africa s image was enhanced and its visibility promoted; and Resuscitation of flights between South Africa and destinations in the region. 15
PROGRAMME 2: INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS Regional tourism reports on the tourism-promotion events to promote South Africa as a preferred tourist destination Q1 & Q2: Asia and Middle East The tourism industry remains heavily impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic which has restricted both local and international movement; Missions and relevant stakeholders have embarked on utilising alternative platforms to host and participate in local and international tourism promotion activities to maintain visibility of the South African brand in the tourism industry; Tourism initiatives focused on: Participation in virtual tourism promotion activities by various Missions; Innovative ways of promoting South Africa as a preferred tourism destination utilising tourist attractions such as art, real time communication between foreign tourists and local media outlets during leisure activities, as well as the release of emotive reactions of tourists whilst in South Africa; Reassurance of local travel industries of South Africa s safety and health precautions taken to ensure public health and safety; Identification of opportunities to maintain brand awareness in preparation for the resumption of open global travel; and Engagements with international airlines regarding the possibility of increasing flights to South Africa. 16
REGIONAL INTEGRATION Report reflecting SA s contribution towards: Peace; stability; socio-economic development; good governance; democracy; and the implementation of the RISDP Q2: SADC South Africa assumed the Chairship of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation at the 41st Ordinary SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government (HoSG). Summit, amongst other matters: Approved the transformation of the SADC Parliamentary Forum into a SADC Regional Parliament and its roadmap as a consultative and a deliberative body with no law-making or other binding authority; Approved the appointment of Mr Elias Mpedi Magosi as the new Executive Secretary of SADC; Urged Member States that have not yet signed or ratified the Protocol on Industry, the Agreement on the Operationalisation of the SADC Regional Development Fund and the Protocol on Trade in Services to do so; Recommended the extension of the mandate of the National Reform Authority for a period of six months with regarding to the situation in Lesotho; and Approved the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020-21. 17
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.1: System of Global Governance (Q1 & Q2) Progress report on the Implementation of the approved strategy Not achieved South Africa will maintain its current level of international memberships and entertain no new memberships. As such, there is no need to draft a strategy in this regard. Reports on the outcomes of multilateral and multistate organisations reflecting South Africa's participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda on peace and security, human rights, economic and social development Peace and Security The reports focus on activities, such as: Peace Building Commission (PBC) Engagements were aimed at ensuring post-conflict reconstruction and development in countries emerging from conflict; and Recognition that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented new challenges with peacebuilding activities, as resources allocated for peacebuilding and reconstruction have had to be channeled to other sectors such as health care. Intergovernmental Negotiations framework (IGN) on Security Council Reform Continued participation provides South Africa an opportunity to pursue its objective of reform of institutions of global governance; and South Africa has called for the reform process to gain momentum. 18
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.1: System of Global Governance (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of multilateral and multistate organisations reflecting South Africa's participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda on peace and security, human rights, economic and social development Ad Hoc Committee on Cyber Crime South Africa has, together with BRICS Member States, championed efforts to establish an international legally binding mechanism under the auspices of the United Nations (UN) to address cyber crime. Open meetings of the UN Security Council (UNSC) The meetings of the UNSC were aimed at advancing international peace and security; and Emphasis on the importance of regional cooperation (particularly cooperation between the UN and the AU) and the peaceful resolution of conflict. UN General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) against Corruption Participation was aimed at pursuing an international commitment by member states to acknowledge the need for greater political will to step up the fight against corruption; South Africa impressed on the need for enhanced international cooperation on matters of asset recovery, extradition and mutual legal assistance respectively; and South Africa reiterated its commitment to the full and effective implementation of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). 19
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.1: System of Global Governance (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of multilateral and multistate organisations reflecting South Africa's participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda on peace and security, human rights, economic and social development IAEA Board of Governance/General Conference The following resolutions, amongst other, on key issues reflecting progress made since the previous regular session were considered: Strengthening the Agency s Technical Cooperation activities; Strengthening the Agency s activities related to Nuclear Science, Technology and Applications; and Strengthening the effectiveness and improving the efficiency of Agency Safeguards. General Debate of the 76th Session of the UN General Assembly Concern raised that the global community has not sustained the principles of solidarity and cooperation in securing equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines; and SA stressed that the international community must redouble its efforts to build a world free of racism and all forms of discrimination and stand united in combatting the COVID-19 pandemic. Commonwealth Foreign Affairs Ministers Meeting (CFAMM) South Africa highlighted that the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals, should form the basic platform for recovery from the pandemic; and Emphasis on the importance of vaccine equity and the call on all Commonwealth members to support the proposal made at the WTO, for a temporary waiver of certain provisions of the TRIPS Agreement. 20
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.1: System of Global Governance (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of multilateral and multistate organisations reflecting South Africa's participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda on peace and security, human rights, economic and social development 7th Review of UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy and the 2nd High-Level Meeting of Heads of Counter-Terrorism agencies The meeting adopted the revised UN Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy; South Africa: Emphasised the importance of maintaining the new focus on extremism to violent extremism conducive to terrorism, to prevent exploitation of the term for political purposes and the violation of fundamental rights and freedoms; and Encouraged the development of partnerships with regional organizations given their appreciation and understanding of local and regional dynamics. Human Rights The reports: Provide an overview of a number of developments which resulted in heightened humanitarian crises, including the conflict in Gaza between Israel and the Palestinian Authority; the conflict in Ethiopia s Tigray region and the heightened food insecurity as a result of COVID-19; and other protracted conflict situations which are on the increase; Reflect on review modalities of the UN Humanitarian Response Depot following the outcomes of the WFP Global Review. 21
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.1: System of Global Governance (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of multilateral and multistate organisations reflecting South Africa's participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda on peace and security, human rights, economic and social development Reflect on the heightened food and nutrition insecurity which continues across the world despite various humanitarian appeals by the United Nations and various international humanitarian organisations; and Reflect South Africa s participation in the: United Nations ECOSOC Humanitarian Affairs Segment (HAS); 47th Session of the Human Rights Council; 20th Anniversary of the adoption of the Durban Declaration and Programme of Action; and United Nations Food Systems Summit. 22
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.1: System of Global Governance (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of multilateral and multistate organisations reflecting South Africa's participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda on peace and security, human rights, economic and social development Economic and Social Development The reports reflect that, amongst other: The development gains of developing countries have been set back twenty years by the COVID-19 pandemic; Internationally, a global re-balancing is taking place, as the world is becoming increasingly multipolar; Multilateral collaboration that was evident at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic has slowly been replaced by narrow national self-interest and protectionism of vaccine availability in the midst of a global pandemic; and Coordination amongst developing countries spanning the world s time zones and the digital divide has proven to be especially challenging; 23
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.1: System of Global Governance (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of multilateral and multistate organisations reflecting South Africa's participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda on peace and security, human rights, economic and social development Key multilateral and plurilateral fora were utilised to advance the President s messages and initiatives, in his capacity as the African Union COVID-19 champion and co-chair of the ACT-A Facilitation Council; Some key events during the reporting period: 54th Session of the Commission on Population and Development - unanimous adoption of the Resolution on Population, Food Security, Nutrition and Sustainable Development; Global Health Summit - Summit adopted the Rome Declaration of Principles , aimed at guiding joint action to prevent future health crises and to build a safer, fairer and more equitable and sustainable world; 74th Session of the World Health Assembly call reiterated for global solidarity and collaboration to be better prepared for the next global health crisis; Extended 44th Session of the World Heritage Committee - South Africa s participation was seen as strong proponent to advance the African Agenda; Foreign Policy and Global Health Initiative (FPGH) Ministerial Virtual Meeting - the meeting, amongst other matters, expressed the importance of solidarity, and multilateral collaboration to mitigate the pandemic, sharing of resources and best practices; as well as to strengthen the resilience, preparedness, response to health emergencies; and High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) on Sustainable Development - the focus was on sustainable and resilient recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic and getting the world on track to implement the 2030 Agenda. 24
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.1: System of Global Governance (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the implementation of South Africa s international reporting obligations One report on South Africa s international reporting obligations. Sixty positions on identified influential multilateral bodies maintained At the end of September 2021, South Africa was represented at 65 positions across the multilateral system. Rotation, retirement and the ending of contract periods often results in fluctuations in numbers. 25
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.2: Continental Cooperation (Q1 & Q2) Monitoring Reports on South Africa s contribution to the operationalisation of identified Agenda 2063 flagship projects One monitoring report on SA contribution to the operationalisation of identified Agenda 2063 flagship projects submitted to the African Union. Assessment Reports reflecting how the outcomes of Africa partnerships are aligned to the AU Agenda 2063 One assessment report reflecting how the outcomes of Africa partnerships are aligned to the AU Agenda 2063 compiled. Reports on South Africa s obligations to SADC and AU fulfilled A biannual report on South Africa s obligations towards the AU, which reflects the following engagements: AU Conference on expanding Africa s Vaccine Manufacturing, where discussions centered on, amongst other, developing a short-term strategy for Africa to manufacture COVID-19 vaccines, strengthening the continent s capacity for vaccine manufacturing for future pandemics, bolstering regional centers for excellence and research hubs; Friends of Multilateralism Heads of State Round Table. Discussions mainly focused on elevating political leadership for pandemic preparedness and response options for strengthened global governance and accountability. 26
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.2: Continental Cooperation (Q1 & Q2) MasterCard Foundation and Africa CDC Launch of Saving Lives, Saving Economies, and Saving Schools: Partnership to Vaccinate Africa . A partnership working towards ensuring that Africa has more access to vaccines, improve public health, economic recovery and bringing life back to normalcy; and AU Bureau Meeting on COVID-19 where updates were provided on funding and support for vaccines which included: The World Bank Group scaling up financing to African countries for the purchase of vaccines from either COVAX or from manufacturers directly; A pipeline of 30 projects amounting to about $2 billion for the African continent was being prepared under the $12 billion vaccines program from the International Development Association (IDA) and the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD); and The African Development Bank (AfDB) Group created the COVID-19 Response Facility to assist its regional member countries in fighting the pandemic. 100% of South Africa s commitments and efforts in order to resolve continental conflicts honoured There were no commitments for South Africa to honour during the reporting period. 27
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.3: South-South Cooperation (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of South-South engagements reflecting South Africa s participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda Sub Programme: Continental Cooperation Q2 Achievements A political declaration was adopted; Concern was expressed regarding the latest developments and there was a call for an end to the illegal Israeli occupation and the restoration of justice and rights to the Palestinian people; and South Africa reaffirmed its long-standing solidarity with the Palestinian people. 2nd BRICS Sherpa/Sous Sherpa Meeting Negotiations that were entered into by Sherpas regarding the text for the Joint Statement released during the Foreign Minister s Meeting where outcomes and deliverables for the meeting were negotiated. 4th Standalone Meeting of BRICS Ministers of Foreign Affairs/ International Relations Adoption of a media statement and a standalone Joint Statement on Strengthening and Reforming of the Multilateral System during the Ministers Meeting; and Further discussions on global and regional peace and security, amongst other matters. BRICS meeting of Deputy Foreign Ministers/Special Envoys on the Middle East and North Africa Statements made during the meeting were mainly with regards to the situation in Iraq, Syria, Libya, Lebanon and the Persian Gulf, as well as on the Middle East Peace Process (MEPP). Extraordinary Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Committee Meeting on Palestine 28
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.3: South-South Cooperation (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of South-South engagements reflecting South Africa s participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda Sub Programme: Continental Cooperation Q2 Achievements The focus of the dialogue included, amongst other: Negotiations by the three IBSA partners on the draft text, particularly the amendment of paragraphs 23 and 24 on the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the G20, which were amended to represent the interests of IBSA; and Announcement of new amendments to be effected with regards to the IBSA inaugural meeting of the IBSA National Security Advisors, as well as the reassignment of the Trade Investment Trade Working Group (TWIG). 11th Bi-annual Meeting of the Committee of Senior Officials (CSO) Discussions during the meeting focused on, amongst other: The acceptance of Russia as an IORA Dialogue Partner which includes five (5) P5 Members; and Establishment of the Tourism Resource Centre (TRC) in Oman, and the creation of Tourism Platforms for sharing best practices. 3rd Meeting of the Ad-Hoc Working Group (AhWG) concerning the eligibility and criteria for selecting the new Secretary-General of IORA The objective of the meeting was to endorse the draft Terms of Reference (ToR) and annexures to be recommended to the Council of Ministers (COM) for approval. India, Brazil, South Africa (IBSA) Dialogue Forum 29
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.3: South-South Cooperation (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of South-South engagements reflecting South Africa s participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda Sub Programme: Continental Cooperation Q2 Achievements BRICS leaders welcomed the concrete deliverables under the BRICS Chairship in 2021 with reference to the signing and / or adoption of, amongst other: Agreement on BRICS Cooperation on Remote Sensing Satellite Constellation; Finalisation of the Agreement on BRICS Cooperation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters; BRICS Counter-Terrorism Action Plan; Action Plan 2021-2024 for Agricultural Cooperation; Innovation Cooperation Action Plan 2021-2024; and BRICS Alliance for Green Tourism. COVID-19 pandemic discussions included, amongst other: Post-COVID tourism and economic recovery; and Recognition of the positive impact made by the distribution of the COVID-19 vaccine to conquer pandemic. Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) mid-term Ministerial Conference Deliberations on various global challenges included, amongst other: Reform of multilateral institutions; COVID-19 pandemic; and Israeli-Palestine conflict. 13 BRICS Summit 30
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.3: North-South Cooperation (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of North-South engagements reflecting South Africa s participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda Sub Programme: Continental Cooperation Q2 Achievements South Africa called on G7 countries to help bridge the funding gap for testing, treatment and vaccination against COVID-19; and South Africa also called for support for the TRIPS waiver which would allow for wider vaccine production to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Outreach Session of the G7 Summit G20 Foreign and Development Ministerial Meeting Key issues discussed during the meeting included, amongst other: Global governance and multilateralism as the appropriate platforms for addressing global challenges such as COVID-19 and for promoting global economic recovery, as well as Africa and food security. The meeting concluded with the adoption of two important documents: The Matera Declaration, amongst other, recognises that poverty alleviation and food security are key to ending hunger and reducing socio-economic inequalities and for achieving SDG 2 on zero hunger by 2030; and A Communiqu that, amongst other, recognises the challenges in Africa, Least Developed Countries and Small Island States and that overcoming the pandemic is a precondition for stable and lasting global recovery. 31
PROGRAMME 3: INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION Sub Programme 3.3: North-South Cooperation (Q1 & Q2) Reports on the outcomes of North-South engagements reflecting South Africa s participation and interests, including that of the African Agenda 2nd G20 Sherpa Meeting Sub Programme: Continental Cooperation Q2 Achievements South Africa, amongst other matters: Reiterated its call on G20 members to support negotiation aimed at securing a temporary waiver on the intellectual property right on the COVID-19 vaccines; On debt, called on the G20 to support an ambitious Special Drawing Rights (SDR) reallocation, including the target of at least US $100bn by October 2021, to support vulnerable countries, including Africa; and On climate change, rejected the unilateral setting of targets outside multilateral environmental agreements, stating that to enhance our ambition and achieve our UNFCCC and CBD goals, developing countries require massively scaled-up support in the form of finance, technology and capacity building. 3rd G20 Sherpa Meeting During the meeting, South Africa, amongst other: Restated its position that the WHO should be at the centre of any new pandemic preparedness structures; Called for greater access to vaccines, including manufacturing capacity and for G20 support for the WTO negotiations on a TRIPS waiver; and Supported current language on women empowerment and introduced language on the prevention of gender violence during lockdowns. 32
PROGRAMME 4.1: PUBLIC DIPLOMACY Achievements Annual Target Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Three (3) key messages distributed to missions on domestic and global developments 18 key messages distributed to missions on domestic and global developments Nine (9) key messages distributed to missions on domestic and global Developments Three (3) Public Participation Programmes Three (3) Public Participation Programmes 12 Public Participation Programmes (PPPs) 24 media statements issued in response to both national and international developments 32 media statements issued in response to both national and international developments 90 Media Statements Two (2) opinion pieces published Four (4) opinion pieces published Nine (9) Opinion Pieces 33
PROGRAMME 4.2: STATE PROTOCOL AND CONSULAR SERVICES Achievements Annual Target Quarter 1 Quarter 2 100% of protocol services rendered to all incoming and outgoing visits 100% (13) of protocol services rendered during visits 100% (8) of protocol services rendered during visits 100% (176) consular services rendered 100% (188) consular services rendered 100% of consular services rendered 100% (13 388) of documents legalised 100% (14 355) of documents legalised 100% of documents legalised 34
PROGRAMME 1: ADMINISTRATION Achievements Annual Target Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Progress report on the implementation of the Digital Strategy reflecting achievements against four strategic objectives: Progress report on the implementation of the Digital Strategy reflecting achievements against two strategic objectives: Four progress reports on the implementation of the Digital Strategy Modernise data, storage, applications, network and telephony and cybersecurity infrastructure; Automate digital business processes and integrate business information systems; Provide and support all digital and information services, including skills development training; Enable and support mobile and remote digital capabilities and services for anytime and anywhere access. Modernise data, storage, applications, network and telephony and cybersecurity infrastructure; Automate digital business processes and integrate business information systems. 35
PROGRAMME 1: ADMINISTRATION Achievements Annual Target Quarter 1 Quarter 2 One progress report on the Audit Action Plan reflecting the progress of the corrective measures and the implementation thereof. Progress report on the Audit Action Plan reflects the development of the new Audit Action Plan as well as progress on the implementation thereof. Recertification audit conducted and ISO 9001:2015 certificate issued. Four progress reports on the Audit Action Plan No target. Maintain ISO- certified quality management system Two progress reports on the delivery of AU/UN languages No target. Report on the delivery of AU/UN languages, covering the training programmes as well as initiatives undertaken to adapt to a digital approach. 36
PROGRAMME 1: ADMINISTRATION Achievements Annual Target Quarter 1 Quarter 2 Status report on the collaboration with the partners to enrich training programmes of the Academy. Partners include, amongst other: Academia; Diplomatic Academies; Research Institutes; and State-owned Enterprises. One outreach initiative to support gender mainstreaming: Organised and hosted a webinar on the realisation of the sexual and reproductive health and rights of every African adolescent and youth in the face of COVID-19. No target. Two progress reports on the collaboration with partners to enrich training programmes of the Academy Six outreach initiatives to change behaviour in relation to gender Three outreach initiatives to support gender mainstreaming by facilitating the: Pan-African Women s Day Commemoration Webinar; Launch of the Charlotte Maxeke African Women s Economic Justice and Rights Initiative; and Inaugural Charlotte Maxeke Minister s Breakfast with Women Ambassadors accredited to South Africa. 37
PROGRAMME 1: ADMINISTRATION Achievements Annual Target Quarter 1 Quarter 2 One mentoring and job shadowing outreach targeting youth: Organised and hosted a webinar on Youth in Diplomacy: Enhancing Representation and Leadership of Youth in the Foreign Policy Space. No target. Although no mentoring and job shadowing target for the quarter, a youth outreach initiative, in collaboration with the Office of Deputy Minister Botes and the University of KwaZulu-Natal, was held. Two strategic interventions were held: Stakeholder consultation on the provision of reasonable accommodation for Employees with Disabilities; and Internal stakeholders consultation to fast-track the provision of assistive devices and universal accessible design for employees with disabilities. Two mentoring and job shadowing outreach initiatives targeting youth Two strategic interventions to strengthen the capacity of DIRCO to effectively and equitably implement the White Paper on the Rights with Disabilities 38
PROGRAMME 1: ADMINISTRATION Achievements Annual Target Quarter 1 Quarter 2 100% (41) legal advice and services on International Law rendered. 100% (45) legal advice and services on International Law rendered. 100% legal advice and services rendered 100% (82) legal advice and services on Domestic Law rendered. 100% (76) legal advice and services on Domestic Law rendered. 39
DIRCO FINANCIAL REPORTS 2021/22 QUARTER 1 40
QUARTER 1 DEPARTMENTAL FINANCIAL REPORT Accumulated Expenditure as at 30 June 2021 2021/22 2020/21 Adjusted Appropriation Cash Drawings for the 1st Quarter Actual % Spent as at 30 June 2021 Expenditure for the 1st Quarter Variance Variance % Programme R'000 R'000 R'000 R'000 % R'000 % Administration 1,690,805 407,697 268,292 139,405 34% 268,292 16% International Relations 3,295,334 887,082 806,485 80,597 9% 806,485 24% International Cooperation Public Diplomacy and State Protocol International Transfers 485,194 135,572 108,857 26,715 20% 108,857 22% 297,439 73,171 54,106 19,065 26% 54,106 18% 749,100 487,956 444,241 43,715 9% 444,241 59% Total 6,517,872 1,991,478 1,681,981 309,497 16% 1,681,981 26% Accumulated Expenditure as at 30 June 2021 Actual Expenditure June 2021 % Spent as at 30 June 2021 Cash Drawings June 2021 2021/22 ENE Variance Variance % Economic classification R'000 R'000 R'000 R'000 % R'000 % Compensation of employees 2,852,045 741,219 707,865 33,354 4% 707,865 25% Goods and services Interest on unitary payments (PPP) Transfer and Subsidies 2,397,183 650,986 478,262 172,724 27% 478,261 20% 125,367 30,591 31,251 (660) -2% 31,251 25% 809,921 514,244 454,772 59,472 12% 454,772 56% Payments for capital assets 333,356 54,438 8,807 45,631 84% 8,807 3% Payments for financial assets - - 1,024 (1,024) 1,024 41 Total 6,517,872 1,991,478 1,681,981 309,497 16% 1,681,981 26%
QUARTER 1 DEPARTMENTAL FINANCIAL REPORT 1. The actual total expenditure for the 1st quarter of 2021/22 financial year amounts to R1.682 billion compared to the cash drawings of R1.991 billion representing a variance of 16% lower than what had been projected. The variances are explained as follows Programme 1 spent R268.3 million of the projected expenditure of R407.7 million. The low spending is mainly attributable to the delay in the implementation of property management strategy due to delays experienced with the bid evaluation committees , delay in the delivery of ICT equipment as well as delay in the processing of ICT services (bandwidth) invoices in the 1st quarter that could not be processed. The non processing of ICT services (bandwidth) invoices was due to challenges with the creation of order number on Central Supplier Database due to expired tax certificate of the company. a) Programme 2 spent R806.5 million of the projected expenditure of R887.1 million. The low spending is mainly attributable to expenditure for 17 missions accounts which did not close the accounts on time as a result the expenditure has not been recorded on Basic Accounting System for reporting as at 30 June 2021, lower exchange rate experienced in the first quarter as well as less travel due to the lockdown restrictions b) 42
QUARTER 1 DEPARTMENTAL FINANCIAL REPORT Programme 3 spent R108.9 million of to the projected expenditure of R135.6 million. The low spending is mainly attributable to to expenditure for 2 missions accounts which did not close the accounts on time as a result the expenditure has not been recorded on Basic Accounting System for reporting as at 30 June 2021, lower exchange rate experienced in the first quarter as well as less travel due to the lockdown restrictions. c) Programme 4 spent R54.1 million of the projected expenditure of R73.2 million. Low spending is mainly due to less travel due to the lockdown restrictions as well partial payment of municipality taxes for foreign missions in South Africa due to outstanding invoices. d) Programme 5 spent R444.2 million of the projected expenditure of R488.0 million. Low expenditure trend is attributable to favourable exchange rate experienced in the 1st quarter of the financial year as well as outstanding assessment letters for annual assessed contribution United Nations Development Programme and Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. e) 43
DIRCO FINANCIAL REPORTS 2021/22 QUARTER 2 44
QUARTER 2 DEPARTMENTAL FINANCIAL REPORT Accumulated Expenditure as at 30 September 2021 R'000 Cash Actual Expenditure for 2nd Quarter % Spent as at 30 September 2021 2021/22 2020/21 Adjusted Appropriation Drawings for the 2nd Quarter Variance Variance % Programme R'000 R'000 R'000 R'000 % % Administration 1,690,805 389,077 306,919 82,158 21% 575,205 34% International Relations 3,295,334 872,378 740,578 131,800 15% 1,546,846 47% International Cooperation 485,194 126,504 114,873 11,631 9% 224,521 46% Public Diplomacy and State Protocol 297,439 76,147 67,744 8,403 11% 121,852 41% International Transfers 749,100 20,926 2,968 17,958 86% 446,349 60% Total 6,517,872 1,485,032 1,233,081 251,951 17% 2,914,774 45% Accumulated Expenditure as at 30 September 2021 R'000 Cash Actual Expenditure for 2nd Quarter % Spent as at 30 September 2021 2021/22 2020/21 Adjusted Appropriation Drawings for the 2nd Quarter Variance Variance % Economic classification R'000 R'000 R'000 R'000 % % Compensation of employees 2,852,045 746,277 710,633 35,644 5% 1,418,499 50% Goods and services 2,397,183 609,593 470,871 138,722 23% 948,844 40% Interest on unitary payments (PPP) 125,367 30,591 31,251 (660) -2% 62,502 50% Transfer and Subsidies 809,921 26,245 9,223 17,022 65% 463,994 57% Payments for capital assets 333,356 72,326 10,087 62,239 86% 18,895 6% Payments for financial assets - - 1,016 (1,016) 2,040 45 Total 6,517,872 1,485,032 1,233,081 251,951 17% 2,914,774 45%
QUARTER 2 DEPARTMENTAL FINANCIAL REPORT 1. Actual total expenditure for the 2nd quarter of 2021/22 financial year amounts to R1.233 billion as compared to the projected expenditure of R1.485 billion representing a variance of 17% lower than what had been projected. The variance analysis per programme is explained as follows: a) Programme 1 spent R306.9 million of the projected expenditure of R389.0 million. The low spending is mainly attributable to the to the delay in the implementation of property management strategy due to delays experienced with the bid evaluation committees , delay in the delivery of ICT equipment as well as as well as invoices for Bandwidth services that were not paid due to expired contract. b) Programme 2 spent R740.6 million of the projected expenditure of R872.4 million. The low spending is mainly attributable to expenditure for 15 missions accounts which did not close the accounts on time as a result the expenditure has not been recorded on Basic Accounting System for reporting as at 30 September 2021, lower exchange rate experienced in the first quarter as well as less travel due to the lockdown restrictions 46
QUARTER 2 DEPARTMENTAL FINANCIAL REPORT c) Programme 3 spent R114.8 million of the projected expenditure of R126.5 million. The low spending is mainly attributable to expenditure for 4 missions accounts which did not close the accounts on time as a result the expenditure has not been recorded on Basic Accounting System for reporting as at 30 September 2021, lower exchange rate experienced in the first quarter as well as less travel due to the lockdown restrictions d) Programme 4 spent R67.7 million of the projected expenditure of R76.1 million. The low spending is due to less travel due to the lockdown restrictions. e) Programme 5 spent R2.9 million of the projected expenditure of R20.9 million. The low spending is due to transfer payments for Commonwealth that was not paid due to outstanding assessment letter. 47
