The practice of diplomacy

At the general meeting of the U3A on Wednesday 29 August, the very experienced diplomat Natie de Swart will deliver a lecture titled "The centuries-old practice of diplomacy".

With a lifetime of experience, De Swart is particularly well placed to give his audience a "behind-the-scenes", inside view of the diplomatic practice of communication between nations.

The De Swart family have lived in the George district since the early 19th century and Natie has collected many degrees and experience in every aspect of law and diplomacy.

He has served as vice-consul, consul, embassy councillor; charge d'affaires and ambassador extraordinaire in seven consular and diplomatic missions abroad, culminating as President Mandela's envoy to Sweden, where he was awarded the Order of the Polar Star, Commander's Class with Silver Star (the highest order for a non-head of state.)

The meeting takes place at Emmaüs in Memorium Street. Come along and meet this fascinating and vastly experienced personality and listen to his thoughts on the old practice of diplomacy which is sadly missing in this day and age. Tea is at 10:00 and the lecture starts at 10:30. The charge is R5 for members and R10 for non-members, who are always welcome.