| Postal Address: |
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001 |
| Company Profile: |
In 2009 the name of the Department of Foreign Affairs changed to Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO). The name change to the Department of International Relations and Cooperation was in line with international trends and informed by the need to give greater clarity to the mandate of the department. In this context, over and above its traditional functions, the department will also engage in dynamic partnerships for development and cooperation. South Africa recognises that its destiny is inextricably linked to that of the developing world in general and in particular the African continent. The renaming of the department was therefore a deliberate decision on the part of government to ensure a holistic approach to foreign relations that reflects on the development agenda.
Vision: Our vision is an African Continent, which is prosperous, peaceful, democratic, non-racial, non-sexist and united, and which contributes to a world that is just and equitable.
Mission: We are committed to promoting South Africa's national interests and values, the African Renaissance and the creation of a better world for all.
Strategic Objectives:
Through bilateral and multilateral interactions protect and promote South African national interests and values.
Conduct and co-ordinate South Africa's international relations and promote its foreign policy objectives.
Monitor international developments and advise government on foreign policy and related domestic matters.
Protect South Africa's sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Contribute to the formulation of international law and enhance respect for the provisions thereof.
Promote multilateralism to secure a rules based international system.
Maintain a modern, effective and excellence driven department.
Provide consular services to South African citizens abroad.
Provide a world class and uniquely South African State Protocol service.
Values: The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) adheres to the following values namely patriotism, loyalty, dedication, ubuntu, equity, integrity and batho pele.
Mandate: The department's overall mandate is to work for the realisation of South Africa's foreign policy objectives. More specifically, the department assists the Minister in carrying out her cabinet and ministerial responsibilities. The department conducts its mandate by: monitoring developments in the international environment; communicating government's policy positions; developing and advising government on policy options, mechanisms and avenues for achieving objectives; promoting our sovereignty and territorial integrity; providing consular services to citizens abroad; and by assisting partner Departments in navigating complex international dynamics.
South Africa's diplomatic and consular representation (missions) abroad help to enhance our international profile, and serve as strategic mechanisms for the achievement of our national interests and for carrying out our mandate. South Africa maintains diplomatic relations with countries and organisations through 124 missions in 105 countries abroad, and through the accreditation of more than 160 countries and organisations resident in South Africa.
Contact information:
Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)
Tel: +27 12 351-1000 (switchboard)
Website: www.dirco.gov.za
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