GLOBAL STATUS
Why SA needs a fresh vision for foreign policy in a changing world
A new overarching paradigm is needed to serve the national interest and take the country forward
Like most leaders these days, President Cyril Ramaphosa assumed high office inexperienced in the field of foreign policy. And like many leaders, he will probably emerge as a "foreign policy" president, particularly in the face of SA’s lack of vision and leadership in this field. His political instincts will tell him that SA’s foreign policy must be put back on track after a decade of decline. For a more effective foreign policy SA must redefine its role in a world that is transforming if it wishes to enhance its global competitiveness, status and respect. This has become a matter of some importance. Getting SA’s foreign policy back on track will require leadership and vision. As Times columnist Barney Mthombothi pointed out, our foreign policy is "neither fish nor fowl". Policy formulation can no longer be left in the hands of generalist bureaucrats and ideologues, as was the case during the Jacob Zuma presidency. We cannot simply muddle on without a clear understanding of what our ...
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