Good for SA

THE Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Co-operation congratulates South Africa on its appointment to a two-year non-permanent membership in the UN Security Council.

As chairperson of the committee I believe the work the Department of International Relations and Co-operation, does under the stewardship of Minister Lindiwe Sisulu is commendable.

This is further evidence that Africa and the world still have trust in the country and South Africa is an influential global player when it comes to mediation efforts and ability. South Africa is happy to play a role at this level, and will continue with a mediation role in various areas where there are disputes on the continent and in the world.

South Africa has also assisted in negotiated settlements that were political in various other countries.

South Africa was voted a nonpermanent member in the UN Security Council this week, a body which is constituted of five permanent members with veto powers and nine nonpermanent member seats that rotate every two years.