Readout of the Secretary-General’s telephone call to H.E. Mr. Jacob Zuma, President of the Republic of South Africa

The Secretary-General spoke with H.E. Mr. Jacob Zuma, President of the Republic of South Africa. He acknowledged South Africa’s leading role in addressing pressing global issues, particularly with respect to peace and security in Africa and the Climate Change agreement. He thanked President Zuma for the constant support he has given to the Secretary-General on these issues.

The Secretary-General expressed his regret over South Africa’s decision to withdraw from the International Criminal Court and recalled the key role that the Government of South Africa had played in the negotiations that led to the adoption of the Rome Statute and as one of its first signatories. Noting that he appreciates the continued and unwavering commitment of the South African Government to justice and accountability, the Secretary-General expressed the hope that it would reconsider its decision before the withdrawal takes effect in twelve months’ time.

The Secretary-General also expressed his preoccupation with the situation in the South Sudan, and urged South Africa’s support in calling for an end to hostilities and a return to an inclusive political process.

Distributed by APO on behalf of United Nations (UN).

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