SA must see real meaning of international solidarity, says Pandor
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor says South Africans have a lot to learn from Qatar when it comes to international solidarity.
Pandor and Minister of Cooperative Governance Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, together with KwaZulu-Natal Premier Sihle Zikalala, briefed the media on humanitarian aid sent by Qatar.
The assistance comes in the wake of the devastating floods in the province.
The floods caused widespread destruction and left some 460 people dead.
Government has come under fire from some quarters for its decision to provide R50 million in humanitarian donations to Cuba, with lobby group AfriForum successfully challenging the donations in court.
Many believe South Africa cannot help other countries when it has its own struggles with unemployment, inequality, and poverty.
But Pandor said she hopes South Africans see the meaning of international humanitarian solidarity.
“Many of you would be aware that we have been having an interesting debate in South Africa about donating humanitarian support to other countries. I hope today you are seeing a real example of international collaboration and solidarity through the support that the people and government of Qatar are giving to the people of the province of KwaZulu-Natal to assist following a disaster.
"When friends have trouble, other friends steps in to assist, countries do not live in isolation.This is part of human international solidarity.
"Just as South Africa during its struggle for freedom sought solidarity from the international community, so must South Africa when others need help, be ready to lend a helping hand. So, what we are experiencing today, is true international friendship from the people and government of Qatar."
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