A Time for Renewal

Nauryz is one of the most important and beloved holidays in Kazakhstan, marking the arrival of spring and renewal. Celebrated on March 22, it coincides with the spring equinox, when day and night are equal in length.  In 2024, Kazakhstan also revived the tradition of celebrating Nauryznama, a 10-day festival from March 14 to 23.
In the age-old tradition of spending this special time with friends and family, Gulnara Akhinzhanova of Kazakhstan hosted a Kazakh Cooking Master Class at the embassy in Pretoria. Amid laughter and the sharing of personal stories, guests participated in the preparation of the renowned Kazakh dishes of Manty and Samsa under the expert guidance of members of the Kazakh Embassy. Irimshik, qurt and jent were also served with specially made Kazakh tea.
A revival to this tradition is wearing traditional Kazakh clothes which young Kazakh Entrepreneurs have recently made popular. Local designers have been creating modern chapans (a traditional gown) and trendy camisoles which the Kazakh ladies were wearing, adorned with beautifully crafted Kazakh jewelry.  
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Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile and the SA government delegation at the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and Japan Organisation for Metals Energy Security (JOGMEG), as part of the three-day Working Visit to Tokyo in Japan - GCIS photo‍

By Kirtan Bhana - TDS

Much is expected from Deputy President Paul Mashatile and his high-level ministerial delegation as they embark on a visit to Japan. As South Africa navigates economic challenges, strengthening ties with a longstanding and reliable partner like Japan offers opportunities to bolster growth and development. Japan, with its commitment to innovation and cooperation, continues to play a vital role in South Africa’s progress.
A reception hosted by the Embassy of Japan in Pretoria marked Japan’s National Day, celebrating the 65th birthday of His Majesty Emperor Naruhito. During his address, Ambassador Shimizu Fumio highlighted the enduring 115-year relationship between Japan and South Africa. This partnership, which dates back to 1910 when Julius Jeppe was appointed Japan’s Honorary Consul, has evolved into a dynamic and mutually beneficial collaboration across various sectors.

CG Mahesh Kumar-JHB, Director Rashmee Ragaven DTICSA, DHC Banu Prakash-PTA, DDG Yunus Hoosen DDG ISA, HC Prabhat Kumar-PTA, Pres. Adv Mtho Xulu - SACCI CG Dr Thelma John David - DBN and Shyam Chand First Secretary Political and Commerce -PTA (photo: TDS)

By Kirtan Bhana - TDS

“South Africa is our second home,” said Mr Rajesh Gupta, CEO of Mahindra South Africa. He was speaking as a panellist on the automotive sector discussions of The India-South Africa Business Conclave for 2025. The Conclave hosted by the High Commission of India to South Africa set out a detailed agenda with speakers and experts from key sectors that have already established operations and are looking to grow, as well as with sectors that have much potential and many commercial opportunities.
Considering the immense differences in demography and diversity of the two countries, the growing commercial engagements between them is both heartening and encouraging. India has been a consistent supporter of South Africa’s economic transition over the past 30 years, India’s headstart and its own difficult transition from colonialism hold many lessons for South Africans. Enduring through the uncertainty and volatility of political and economic transformation is just beginning to show positive sustainable signs of growth as the vestiges of an outdated, unfair and anti-competitive economic structure begin to crumble, and a new inclusive, productive and equitable process and structure emerges

The 14th National Peoples' Congress - Beijing, China

By Kirtan Bhana - TDS

China’s meteoric rise as a global power over the past few decades is a testament to the country’s unique blend of governance, economic policy, and social focus. As the world watches the dawn of a new era for China, the significance of the country's people-centred approach cannot be overstated. At the heart of this model is the system of governance encapsulated by the annual Two Sessions (Lianghui), where delegates from all walks of life come together to debate, plan, and implement the country’s five-year plans. These gatherings of the National People’s Congress (NPC) and the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) serve not just as legislative functions but as vital expressions of China’s democratic focus—rooted in its commitment to its people.
In 2025, China marks the final year of its 14th Five-Year Plan, a blueprint that was adopted by the Communist Party of China (CPC) to guide the nation’s development. This moment serves as an important juncture, reflecting on the country’s impressive progress and shaping its path forward as it navigates the complexities of a rapidly changing global landscape. The focus of the Two Sessions this year that has increasingly taken centre stage is the consumer. In a world where global supply chains are often dictated by macroeconomic forces and trade wars, China’s approach to consumer-centred economics has become both a model and a point of introspection.

Dr Wasfi Ayyad, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Jordan (centre) with guests‍

by Kirtan Bhana - TDS
In the spirit of Ramadan, Dr. Wasfi Ayyad, Ambassador of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to South Africa, hosted Iftar at his official residence in Pretoria. The event brought together diplomats, community members, and friends of Jordan to share in the time-honored tradition of breaking fast during the Islamic holy month.
Among the dignitaries who observed Iftar and joined the Salah prayers led by Dr. Abdel Wahab, Ambassador of Libya to South Africa, were former Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Dr. Naledi Pandor, as well as the Dean of the Arab Diplomatic Group, Mahash Saeed Alhameli, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to South Africa.

Saudi Arabian Ambassador Faisal Al-Harbi with Zane Dangor, Director General of the South African Department of International Relations and Cooperation

By Kirtan Bhana - TDS
In the broader Islamic world, including South Africa, Ramadan and Iftar hold the same deep spiritual meaning. The gathering hosted by the Saudi Arabian Ambassador Mr Faisal Al-Harbi in Pretoria on 7 March is an example of how Muslims come together to observe Ramadan’s significance. For the guests at the Iftar observance, it is an opportunity to experience the communal and spiritual essence of the holy month, building bridges of understanding and solidarity among diverse cultures and backgrounds while honouring the shared values of faith, charity, and community that Ramadan embodies.
The over 200 guests at the Iftar that took place in Menlyn, Pretoria included members of the diplomatic corps and international organisations, government officials, the business community and friends of Saudi Arabia.

Ambassador Roman Ambarov introducing guests to the movie 'The Flying Ship'‍

By Anisha Pemjee
‘The Flying Ship’ was this month’s featured film at the ever-popular Russian Movie Night event in Pretoria, South Africa. The audience was treated to a fantastical musical comedy based on the 1979 Soviet cartoon of the same name. Rooted in folklore, the story is filled with magical creatures and enchanting elements.
Introducing the 2024 remake to guests, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to South Africa, Roman Ambarov remarked, “This has nothing to do with the legend of the Flying Dutchman, which originates in Cape Town. This tale is as old as time—a ruler of the kingdom wants his daughter, Princess Zabava, to marry Paul, the sole heir of the wealthy Polkan. But the princess wants to marry for love. Her unexpected encounter with Ivan, an honest and charming sailor, throws a wrench into Paul’s plans to claim the crown. The villain wields dark magic and wealth, while Ivan has the support of magical creatures, love, and an unshakable dream. Let’s see who prevails.”

Minister Lamola and Minister Rodriguez in bilateral talks (photo: Dirco)

By Anisha Pemjee - TDS
South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, hosted his Cuban counterpart, Minister Bruno Rodríguez Parrilla, for high-level bilateral talks in Pretoria on Monday, 10 March 2025. The discussions sought to reinforce the long-standing strategic partnership between South Africa and Cuba, fostering deeper cooperation in various sectors.
The meeting follows fruitful discussions held between the two Ministers on the margins of the 79th United Nations General Assembly. The bilateral engagements reaffirmed the deep cultural, historical, and political ties between South Africa and Cuba, rooted in shared struggles, international solidarity, and a joint commitment to advancing the development agenda of the Global South.

The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and Table Mountain in Cape Town, South Africa, August 12, 2023. /Xinhua‍

Kirtan Bhana - CGTN Opinion
The expulsion of the South African Ambassador to the United States Ebrahim Rasool, watched by the world with a mixture of surprise and contemplation, adds to a long list of contentious and dramatic moves made by U.S. President Donald Trump, characterized by abrupt, and often unpredictable, policy shifts. The incident serves as a crucial moment for reflection, particularly for the Global South countries, which now find themselves at a crossroads.
The broader societal impact of Trump's policies has left many Americans – and indeed, many nations – grappling with the implications of his radical shift in both domestic and foreign policy. The rhetoric of nationalism, populism and "America First" resonated deeply with the U.S. electorate, yet it also poses a challenge to international relations, as evidenced by the drastic steps taken with South Africa.
South Africa stands in a unique position on the global stage. In the years following the end of apartheid, South Africa's journey was hailed as a "miracle" and its diversity and unity as models of reconciliation. International support for South Africa's transformation has been significant, and for many, its success was seen as proof that even the most divided societies could overcome their pasts and build a prosperous future. However, the diplomatic fallout highlights the changing dynamics of international relations and serves as a reminder of the fragility of global alliances.‍

• EU affirms strategic partnership with SA
  
• World financiers bullish on Global South development
  
• Honouring Russian volunteers in Utrecht
  
• China-Africa cooperation energizes joint pursuit of modernization
  
• The South African Royal Princesses elect their Leadership
  

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