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On Tuesday, 19 August, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, hosted a High-Level Event on the Global Initiative to Galvanise Political Commitment for International Humanitarian Law (IHL) in Pretoria.

The initiative, launched in September 2024 by Brazil, China, France, Jordan, Kazakhstan, and South Africa, in partnership with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), is an urgent response to the devastating human toll of armed conflicts worldwide. It seeks to reinvigorate global dialogue on International Humanitarian Law, reaffirm political will, and foster practical cooperation to ensure that the principles of humanity are preserved, even in times of war.

South Africa’s Diplomatic Leadership

As a founding member of the Global Initiative, South Africa continues to position itself as a champion of international law, peace, and multilateralism. The Pretoria event, co-hosted with the ICRC’s Regional Delegation for Southern Africa, brought together Heads of African Diplomatic Missions to encourage broader African Union participation. By amplifying Africa’s voice, the event underscored the importance of inclusivity in shaping a representative and global dialogue on IHL.

Deputy Minister Botes’ Call for Renewed Commitment

In his keynote address, Deputy Minister Botes stressed the relevance of IHL in today’s fractured geopolitical landscape, noting that “international law, in general, is vital, but the moral and legal clarity offered by International Humanitarian Law is more relevant and critical than ever before.”
He reiterated South Africa’s unwavering commitment to the rule of law, asserting that human dignity must never be compromised, regardless of the context of conflict. “The dignity of every human being, whether in Gaza, Ukraine, the DRC, or Sudan, must be protected with unrelenting passion,” he said.

A Collective Responsibility

The Deputy Minister urged states and international actors to reaffirm their collective dedication to safeguarding IHL principles:
“Let us reaffirm our commitment to upholding International Humanitarian Law at all times and in all places. Let us join forces to build a world where the sanctity of life is upheld, and the principles of dignity, safety, security, equality, and justice are promoted universally.”

The High-Level Event reflects South Africa’s strategic diplomatic role in bridging global and regional perspectives on humanitarian law. It also highlights Africa’s evolving contribution to shaping normative frameworks that protect civilians in conflict. By convening African missions, Pretoria not only strengthens continental solidarity but also signals its determination to ensure that Africa’s experiences and perspectives are central to the future of humanitarian diplomacy.

At a time when conflicts are eroding trust in international systems, South Africa’s leadership, together with global partners and the ICRC, represents a renewed push to safeguard humanity against the darkest impulses of war.

Photo Credit: Dirco

#InternationalHumanitarianLaw
#southafrica
#Strengtheninginternationallaw
#ICRC
#DiplomacyInAction
#diplomaticchallenges
#diplomaticrelations
#diplomaticinformermagazine
#diplomaticinformersa

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Date: 6 September 2025
Time: 09:00 – 13:00
Venue: Crawford International Pretoria, 555 Sibelius Street, Lukasrand, Pretoria

Photo: An exhibitor showcasing products at a previous Embassies Business Fair and Conference Event

Pretoria, South Africa —Africa is stepping boldly into the global economic arena. As the G20 draws near, a landmark partnership between the Africa Investment Summit (AIS), the Embassies Business Fair & Conference (EBFC), and the Africa Investment Projects (AIP) think tank is set to reframe the continent’s narrative not as a passive participant in global affairs, but as a driver of resilient, inclusive, and future-focused economies.

This partnership culminates in the Road to G20: Resilient Economies in Africa Event, taking place on 8–9 September 2025 at the CSIR International Convention Centre in Pretoria. More than a gathering, this event is a platform for policymakers, investors, business leaders, and civil society to engage in action-driven dialogue, forge strategic partnerships, and craft policies that align Africa’s priorities with global development agendas.

The timing is no coincidence. As the global community prepares for the G20 Summit, Africa is asserting itself not merely as a resource-rich continent, but as a region with solutions, innovation, and resilience to contribute to shaping global policy.

From climate-smart agriculture to digital transformation and industrialisation, African economies have demonstrated their ability to pivot and adapt to global shocks. The Road to G20 event offers an opportunity to leverage this resilience while spotlighting the continent’s role in building a fairer, greener, and more inclusive world economy.

The programme is designed to move beyond speeches into action-oriented outcomes. Delegates can look forward to:

• Keynote Addresses from African and global leaders charting the way forward.
• Panels  and   Breakaway   Sessions   tackling   trade,   innovation,   and   sustainable development with actionable insights.
• Exhibitions showcasing cutting-edge solutions and investment-ready projects.
• Pitching Sessions giving entrepreneurs direct access to investors and markets.
• Networking Exchanges  curated  to  deliver  meaningful  cross-border  deals  and partnerships.

This design ensures the event is not simply a conference but a launchpad for transformative impact.

At the heart of this initiative are three organisations whose combined strengths create a powerful synergy:

• Embassies Business Fair & Conference (EBFC) serving as a diplomatic bridge, EBFC connects embassies, businesses, and investors, advancing inclusive development and market access while empowering SMMEs.
• Africa Investment Summit (AIS) a pan-African platform aligned with the AfCFTA,

Agenda  2063,  and  the  UN  SDGs,  unlocking  opportunities  in  infrastructure, manufacturing, and industrialisation.

• Africa Investment  Projects  (AIP)  –  the policy  think  tank  behind  the summit, delivering research, evidence-based insights, and innovative frameworks that anchor Africa’s strategies in both global best practices and African realities.

Together, they are crafting a model of African-led development diplomacy a platform where evidence, policy, and business converge to shape global conversations.

The event is already being framed as a turning point for Africa’s role on the world stage.

“This partnership is a testament to Africa’s ability to lead through collaboration and innovation. By combining AIS’s investment platform, AIP’s policy expertise, and EBFC’s unique diplomatic network, the Road to G20 Event will be a launchpad for impactful ideas, investments, and partnerships that shape Africa’s global future.”

— Mr. Lucky Litelu, Chairman, Africa Investment Projects and Summit

“The Road to G20 Event opens the door to direct engagement with over 40 embassies, investors, and global business leaders. From pitching to business exchange, our partnership empowers growth, unlocks markets, and champions Africa’s role in the world economy.”

— Sihle Dube, Managing Director, Embassies Business Fair & Conference

The Road to G20: Resilient Economies in Africa is more than a regional event it is a

statement that Africa’s voice is integral to shaping the future of the world economy.

As conversations intensify around inclusive growth, climate action, and equitable trade, Africa is offering more than resources; it is offering leadership, creativity, and resilience.

The question that will guide the event is not if Africa can contribute, but how far the global community is willing to walk alongside Africa in building a shared, sustainable future.

Event Details

• Dates: 8–9 September 2025
• Venue: CSIR International Convention Centre, Pretoria, South Africa
• Website & Registration:  https://embassiesbfc.com

Media Contact

Nomsa Mdhluli

Nomsa@tishalacommunications.com |     +27 71 628 6231

The International Partners’ Recognition event, held in Abu Dhabi, brought together 21 global dignitaries who played a crucial role in fostering international cooperation during COP28 and in achieving the historic UAE Consensus.

His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, along with Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, COP28 President, commended the honorees for their unwavering dedication to collaboration, hard work, and service in shaping a better world.

During the event, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan presented the First Class Order of Zayed II to these global leaders in recognition of their significant contributions to COP28 and their efforts in reaching the UAE Consensus.

The distinguished recipients included:

– Hindou Ibrahim, Association for Indigenous Women and Peoples of Chad
– Prof. Carlos Lopes, Chair of the African Climate Foundation Board
– Dr. Agnes Kalibata, President of AGRA

#COP28 #UAEConsensus

Spain joins Norway and Ireland in recognizing the State of Palestine.

Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez’s declaration of recognition of the State of Palestine was met with overwhelming applause during his speech in Parliament.

Pedro Sánchez, Prime Minister of the Government of Spain, stated: “Reflecting the majority sentiment of the Spanish people, I announce that next Tuesday, May 28, Spain will approve the recognition of the State of Palestine in the Council of Ministers.”

Ireland formally recognises state of Palestine, Taoiseach announced: ‘this is was an historic and important day for Ireland and for Palestine.’

In making the announcement this morning Mr Harris, alongside Tánaiste Micheál Martin and Green Party Leader Eamon Ryan, said he was confident other countries would now follow the move in the coming weeks.

“This is an historic and important day for Ireland and for Palestine,” he added.

“On January 21 1919, Ireland asked the world to recognise our rights to be an independent state. Our message to the free nations of the world was a plea for international recognition of our independence, emphasising our distinct national identity, our historical struggle, and our rights to self-determination and justice. Today, we use the same language to support the recognition of Palestine as a state.”

Photo Credit: Mathias Rongved/MFA

In accordance with international law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions, Norway recognizes Palestine as a state. The territorial boundaries between Palestine and Israel should be based on the pre-1967 borders, as defined in the 1949 Armistice Agreements, with Jerusalem serving as the capital of both states. This recognition is without prejudice to a final settlement on borders, including the possibility of land swaps.

This recognition follows the 2023 decision by the Storting (Norwegian Parliament), which authorized the Government to recognize Palestine as a state when it could positively contribute to the peace process, without requiring a final peace agreement as a precondition.

Recognizing Palestine as a state is a significant decision, which, under Article 28 of the Constitution, requires approval by the King in Council of State. After adoption by Royal Decree on Friday, May 24, Palestine will be formally informed of this recognition through a verbal note. Norway’s formal recognition of Palestine as a state will take effect on Tuesday, May 28, 2024.

With this recognition, Norway will consider Palestine an independent state with all associated rights and responsibilities. This includes the expectation that all interactions with Palestine will be based on fundamental international law principles regarding independence, equality, and peaceful coexistence.

Norway believes that strengthening efforts towards establishing a Palestinian state and achieving a two-state solution will bolster moderate forces on both sides advocating for a political resolution.

Norway Condemns Terrorism

The Norwegian Government has informed both Palestinian and Israeli authorities of its decision to recognize Palestine as a state.

“Norway intends to maintain its close relationship with Israeli authorities. Norway was one of the first countries to recognize the state of Israel in 1949. We acknowledge Israel’s vulnerable security situation and its legitimate right to self-defense within the framework of international law. We believe that the two-state solution is in Israel’s best interest and will contribute to a more peaceful, secure, and stable region,” said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre and Minister of Foreign Affairs Espen Barth Eide at the press conference when they announced that Norway recognizes Palestine.

Photo: H.E. Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi, late President of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Photo: The late Foreign Minister H.E. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian

During this time of profound grief and sorrow, we pray to Almighty Allah to bless President Raisi, Foreign Minister Amir-Abdollahian, and the accompanying delegation, and to grant them Jannatul Firdaus.

May the memories and legacy of His Excellency Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi and His Excellency Hossein Amir-Abdollahian continue to inspire generations to come.

President Raisi was a fearless leader and a dedicated public servant with a long and distinguished career. He was committed to the causes he believed in and worked tirelessly to elevate Iran’s standing on the global stage.

His Excellency Seyyed Ebrahim Raisi will be remembered for his wisdom and unwavering commitment to the betterment of Iran and its people. His Excellency Hossein Amir-Abdollahian was a strong advocate for strengthening relationships between nations and made significant contributions to enhancing Iran’s foreign policy.

“Surely, to Allah, we belong, and surely to Him, we shall return.”

Result:
– In Favor:143
– Against: 9
– Abstain: 25

On Friday, the United Nations General Assembly convened in New York for an emergency special session addressing the Gaza crisis, during which it overwhelmingly passed a resolution upgrading Palestine’s status at the UN to that of an Observer State, while stopping short of offering full membership.

The resolution calls on the Security Council to give “favorable consideration” to Palestine’s request for full membership.

This vote represents a significant upgrade in Palestine’s status at the United Nations, granting it additional powers within the global body, though it still falls short of full membership and voting rights. The Palestinian ambassador to the UN, Riyad Mansour, hailed the resolution as a “historic” step towards his people’s inevitable political liberation.

In stark contrast, Israel’s UN ambassador delivered an impassioned speech before the General Assembly, denouncing the move and likening Hamas to “modern-day Nazis,” arguing that the resolution has opened the United Nations to these extremists.

The United Nations General Assembly voted by more than a two-thirds majority on Friday to adopt an amended Arab-proposed resolution that urges reconsideration and support for Palestine’s membership in the UN. The resolution also calls for Palestine to be seated among member states alphabetically.

“When you build a building, you do it one brick at a time. If some think it’s symbolic, for us, it’s important as we move towards our natural and legal right to full membership in the UN,” Palestinian Ambassador Riyad Mansour told reporters on Thursday.

“The symbolism is what matters,” echoed UN expert Richard Gowan. “This resolution sends a very clear message to Israel and the US that it is time to take Palestinian statehood seriously.”

The United States, however, expressed reservations. “We’re concerned about the precedent it sets,” said Deputy US Ambassador Robert Wood.

An earlier draft of the resolution was more ambiguous, merely granting “the State of Palestine the rights and privileges” necessary to participate in the Assembly’s work “on equal footing with Member States” without specifying which rights. The final version, aligned with the UN Charter, specifies the additional rights Palestine will receive as an Observer State without infringing on those reserved exclusively for full members, explained Samuel Žbogar, the ambassador of Slovenia, which currently holds a seat on the Security Council.

The objective of the AFSH Summit 2024 was to convene relevant stakeholders to underscore the pivotal role of fertilizer and soil health in driving sustainable, pro-poor productivity growth in African agriculture. The summit also aimed to secure agreement on an African Fertilizer and Soil Health Action Plan, alongside the Soils Initiative for Africa.

Expected Outcomes

The summit successfully endorsed a 10-year Action Plan, which will offer concrete recommendations for steps that African leaders and stakeholders should take over the next decade. This action plan serves as a focal point for new policies and investments, empowering farmers to rebuild soil health, increase yield responses, and enhance the profitability of fertilizers. It was anticipated that the Action Plan would gain the support of leading public and private sector partners across Africa. Key elements include:

1. The Nairobi Declaration
2. A 10-year Action Plan
3. The Soil Initiative for Africa (SIA)
4. A mechanism for financing the Action Plan (post-Summit implementation process)

President Ruto emphasized the necessity for Africa to prioritize the local manufacturing of affordable fertilizers to enhance farm productivity and advance food security. His leadership in advocating for local fertilizer production is crucial for achieving sustainable agriculture and food security in Kenya.

Africa must work towards securing affordable, high-quality, and accessible fertilizers through local manufacturing. By doing so, we can boost farm productivity and propel our progress toward food security.

During the Africa Fertilizer and Soil Health Summit at the Kenyatta International Convention Center in Nairobi County, it was noted that while some African countries produce fertilizer, most rely heavily on imports, making fertilizers prohibitively expensive for farmers. Despite the existence of the African Center for Fertilizer Development in Zimbabwe since the 1980s, its potential has not been fully realized.

We must optimize the use of existing continental assets to enhance local fertilizer production and ensure that African farmers have access to quality fertilizers at affordable prices. This is imperative if we are to strengthen the continent’s agricultural sector, which is vital for our food sovereignty and security. These investments should also be reflected in national budgets, as emphasized by H.E. Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union Commission.

#ListenToTheLand
#AFSH24
#Agenda2063