King Charles 'won't turn his back on South Africa'

Phillipson briefed the media on Wednesday morning on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.

Queen Elizabeth, who was the UK's longest-serving monarch, died last week Thursday at age 96.

South Africa is a member of the Commonwealth.

Phillipson says the commitment to relations with South Africa will continue.

"I think there is going to be a considerable amount of continuity, starting with the transition from Her Late Majesty to His Majesty. I think His Majesty will be continuing the Queen's commitment to the strong bond with South Africa bilaterally and through the commonwealth. 

“I think His Majesty said the Commonwealth is an important forum for engagements between the members of it, founded on common values of democracy and commitment. 

“We have seen through his many decades of public service already, the commitment to youth engagement and the environment and I think is the cause that he will continue to run when taking over the Commonwealth.

I think we will continue to see the important prioritisation of the relationship with South Africa, I don't think there is a reason I would expect that to change. The issues that we have been working on with South Africa around the inclusive economic growth commitment to delivering on the just energy transition and working together to deal with the consequences of Covid-19,” said Phillipson.

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