In preparation of the execution of the mandate assigned by the United Nations for South Africa to host the 2001 World Conference on Racism and Xenophobia, the Government has taken the following steps to ensure a successful Conference.
1. established an inter-ministerial committee led by Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma to exercise political oversight on behalf of Cabinet over the process
2. appointed Foreign Affairs Director-General, Sipho Pityana as Chairperson of the Conference National Preparatory Committee (NPC) to oversee logistical and administrative arrangements to be in place ahead of the Conference. The NPC consists of representative of civil society, Human Rights, Gender equality, Youth Commission, and Academics
In this regard and in his capacity as Chairperson of the National Preparatory Committee, the Director-General is currently attending the Annual UN Human Rights Commission in Geneva Switzerland .
In addition he will also be attending a High-level meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs and Justice which will conclude its business on Friday 24 March 2000.
In pursuance of this mandate Mr Pityana has also met with Mrs Mary Robinson, the UN High Commissioner on Human Rights (see joint statement below).
On Thursday 23 March, Mr Pityana will deliver a statement on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa which will focus on
The International Conference on racism is expected to attract about 10-15 000 delegates from across the globe. A delegation of the UN will visit SA to assess the country’s ability to host a Conference of this magnitude.
SA remains convinced it has resources both human and infrastructural, to host such a Conference.
Both Minister Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma and Mr Pityana will visit Geneva on 1-5 May this year to attend a Preparatory Committee meeting to discuss the structure of the Conference.
ISSUED BY ACTING DIRECTOR-GENERAL ABDUL MINTY
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
22ND MARCH 2000