DIRCO, defence ministry angered by SANDF general's visit to Iran
Maphwanya reportedly pledged solidarity with Iran when he met with Major General Amir Hatami, Chief of Staff of Iran's Army, and other senior members in Tehran this week.
According to Jewish publication The Algemeiner , during a joint media briefing, Maphwanya called for deeper ties between Iran and South Africa, especially in defence cooperation, affirming that South Africa and the Islamic Republic of Iran have common goals.
'We always stand alongside the oppressed and defenceless people of the world,' he was quoted as saying.
Likewise, Hatami reportedly said that both countries share a strong commitment to opposing 'colonialism and global arrogance,' with South Africa playing a significant role in Iran's foreign policy priorities.
In response, DIRCO spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said it is crucial to clarify that the implementation of South Africa's foreign policy is a function of the Presidency, supported by DIRCO.
Phiri said, consequently, any statements made by an individual or a department other than those responsible for foreign policy should not be misinterpreted as the official position of the South African Government.
'The remarks attributed to General Maphwanya, therefore, do not represent the government's official foreign policy stance.
'In response to this matter, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Mr Ronald Lamola will be seeking further clarification,' he said.
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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