Africa's election to the United Nations (UN) Security Council (Non-permanent
seat)
16 October 2006
1. South Africa is greatly privileged and honoured by its election by the
general membership of the United Nations to serve on the UN Security Council in
a non-permanent capacity.
2. In this regard, SA extends its gratitude to the peoples and government of
Africa and the world for the confidence bestowed upon us to serve the people of
our continent and indeed the world in the UN Security Council.
3. Accordingly, and on behalf of President Thabo Mbeki, the government and
people of South Africa, we humbly accept the mandate thrust upon us by the
peoples of Africa, the South and the world in general in electing us to this
position of responsibility.
4. We do so conscious and convinced that the multilateral system of global
governance remains the only hope for challenges facing humanity today.
5. As a consequence, thereof, we declare our readiness and preparedness to
serve the peoples of Africa, the South and the World in this capacity.
6. South Africa, commits itself thus, fully cognisant of the challenges that
will certainly arise from the responsibilities that will attend to the
membership of the UN Security Council as an instrument of our collective peace
and security.
7. In pursuance thereof, South Africa will strive in conjunction with the
African Union, to create synergies between the work of the African Union Peace
and Security Council and the UN Security Council, with a view to the prevention
of outbreaks of violence and conflict on the continent of Africa
8. We shall work with all members of the Security Council, and regional
organisations in pursuit of peace and stability in all regions of the world,
especially in the Middle East.
9. In addition, South Africa shall continue to work with all members of the
United Nations General Assembly in pursuit of the comprehensive reform of the
United Nations, including the reform and expansion of the United Nations
Security Council.
For further information, please contact:
Ronnie Mamoepa
Cell: 082 990 4853
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
16 October 2006
