Department of International Relations and Cooperation

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) is the South African government department responsible for managing the country's foreign policy and international relations. It represents South Africa's interests on the global stage, engaging in diplomatic activities and fostering relationships with other nations and international organizations. DIRCO is currently newsworthy due to recent diplomatic actions. Specifically, the department summoned the new US ambassador following what it deemed "undiplomatic" remarks regarding a contentious racial issue. Furthermore, DIRCO has ordered the expulsion of the Israeli envoy, declaring them persona non grata, accusing the official of "unacceptable violations of diplomatic norms." These actions highlight DIRCO's role in safeguarding South Africa's sovereignty and upholding diplomatic protocols, demonstrating its active engagement in addressing perceived breaches of diplomatic etiquette and national interests.