SA, ICRC Deepen Partnership Amid Global Crises
Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Alvin Botes, yesterday received the Letter of Credence from Mr. Jean-Nicolas Paquet-Rouleau, Head of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Regional Delegation for Southern Africa.
The ceremony, held on 20 January, underscores South Africa’s commitment to advancing humanitarian principles and international cooperation in addressing armed conflicts, migration challenges, and emergencies across the region.
The ICRC’s Pretoria-based delegation supports operations in countries including Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, promoting compliance with international humanitarian law and providing aid to vulnerable populations.
Deputy Minister Botes expressed appreciation for the ICRC’s impartial work and highlighted opportunities for enhanced collaboration on issues such as restoring family links, health services in crisis zones, and advocacy for humanitarian access.
This diplomatic milestone signals renewed momentum in South Africa-ICRC relations, vital amid ongoing global humanitarian needs.
