DIRCO Annual Report

Programme 4:

Domestic and foreign audiences informed on South Africa’s foreign policy objectives and priorities In light of the COVID-19 outbreak and subsequent lockdown on 26 March 2020, DIRCO refocused its annual strategy to be responsive to the ever-changing climate, emphasising the use of technology and digital platforms to discharge its responsibilities. The implementation of the comprehensive strategy allowed DIRCO to virtually showcase South Africa as a country alive with possibilities, highlighting its foreign policy objectives, positions and achievements during this difficult time. Improv ed compliance with the diplomatic regulatory framework During the past year, DIRCO initiated measures in an attempt to curb the abuse of diplomatic privileges. Duty-free shops have been identified as a high-risk environment where the abuse of diplomatic privileges has led to substantial losses to the fiscus. A number of foreign missions were identified, where diplomatic and consular agents abused the privileges accorded to them for personal gain, through the resale of duty-free alcohol and tobacco products in volumes far greater than those considered to be for personal or official use. A section will be established within DIRCO, which will control the volumes of tobacco and alcohol products allowed per diplomatic and consular agents. A quota system was approved in conjunction with the South African Revenue Service and will be implemented in mid 2021. DIRCO also provided Consular Services to South African citizens in distress abroad and played a vital role with regard to the repatriation of South Africans who were stranded abroad during the initial international COVID-19 lockdown.

Annual Report 2020/2021 I Vote No. 6

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