Topnews, Südafrika

22. September 2019

MINISTER PANDOR ARRIVES IN NEW YORK FOR THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Naledi Pandor, has today, Sunday, 22 September 2019, arrived in New York, where she is leading the South African delegation to the 74th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA74).

This marks Minister Pandor’s inaugural participation in UNGA as Minister of International Relations and Cooperation. Minister Pandor will participate in the annual General Debate, which is the occasion for world leaders to gather at UN Headquarters to discuss global issues.

This year’s UN General Assembly is scheduled for 23 to 30 September 2019 under the theme: “Galvanizing multilateral efforts for poverty eradication, quality education, climate action and inclusion.” The theme was announced by the President of the General Assembly (PGA), Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande of Nigeria.

In her address to the UN General Assembly, Minister Pandor is expected to outline South Africa’s domestic and foreign policy goals and priorities. These include South Africa's objectives as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council from 2019 to 2020 and the country’s commitment to multilateralism in addressing current challenges facing the international community, including in the areas of peace and security, sustainable development, human rights and the reform of global governance.

Minister Pandor will attend several high-level meetings, side events and summits taking place on the margins of UNGA. The Minister and for other members of the delegation are also expected to take part in bilateral meetings with counterparts.

Other members of the South African delegation include the Minister of Health, Dr Zweli Mkhize; the Minister of Environment, Forestry and Fisheries, Ms. Barbara Creecy; the Minister in the Presidency, Mr. Jackson Mthembu; and Minister of Defence and Military Veterans Ms Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula.

Enquiries: Mr Clayson Monyela, Spokesperson for DIRCO, 082 884 5974

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION

OR Tambo Building

460 Soutpansberg Road

Rietondale

Pretoria

0084

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