The Government of South Africa and the Government of Canada reaffirmed their longstanding bilateral partnership during the 15th Annual South Africa–Canada Consultations held on 15 May 2026 at the OR Tambo Building in Pretoria.
The high-level consultations were co-chaired by the Director-General of the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), Zane Dangor, and the Deputy Minister for International Development at Global Affairs Canada, Cynthia Termorshuizen.
The annual consultations serve as an important diplomatic platform for South Africa and Canada to strengthen bilateral relations, review cooperation programmes, and discuss regional and international developments of mutual concern.
Strengthening South Africa–Canada Relations
The discussions highlighted the growing strategic partnership between South Africa and Canada, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, economic cooperation, peacebuilding, and inclusive global governance.
The meeting also provided an opportunity for both delegations to exchange views on key global challenges, including international security, climate change, humanitarian issues, development cooperation, and economic recovery efforts.
South Africa and Canada continue to maintain strong diplomatic ties founded on shared values such as democracy, human rights, gender equality, and international cooperation. The two countries have also collaborated extensively in areas including education, trade, innovation, development assistance, and capacity-building initiatives.
Focus on Development and Global Cooperation
As Deputy Minister for International Development at Global Affairs Canada, Ms Termorshuizen’s participation underscored Canada’s continued interest in supporting development partnerships across Africa and advancing cooperation with South Africa on continental and global priorities.
The consultations further reflected South Africa’s role as a key diplomatic and economic actor on the African continent, particularly within frameworks such as the African Union, the G20, BRICS, and broader South-South cooperation initiatives.
DIRCO Director-General Mr Dangor reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to constructive international engagement and strengthening partnerships that contribute to peace, stability, and sustainable development.
Importance of Annual Bilateral Consultations
The South Africa–Canada Consultations remain a critical mechanism for enhancing diplomatic dialogue and identifying new areas of collaboration between the two nations. Such engagements also contribute to strengthening people-to-people relations and advancing shared international objectives.
The 15th edition of the consultations demonstrated the continued momentum in bilateral relations between Pretoria and Ottawa, as both countries seek to expand cooperation in an increasingly complex global environment.
With global geopolitical and economic challenges continuing to evolve, the consultations highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships and sustained diplomatic engagement between countries committed to international cooperation and development.
Images: DIRCO
