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14 June 2025 Issue 336 - Dialogue Among Civilizations
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| Dialogue Among Civilizations, A New Dawn for Humanity |
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June 10, 2025, marked a watershed moment in the annals of human history, the first International Day for Dialogue Among Civilizations, officially declared by the United Nations and initiated by the People's Republic of China. It is not simply a commemoration, but a clarion call to humanity to reconnect with its ancestral wisdom and collective purpose in a rapidly changing global order.
Held at the Embassy of China in Pretoria, South Africa, the inaugural celebration of this day was deeply reflective, infused with ancestral memory and forward-looking vision. Chinese Ambassador Wu Peng welcomed guests to a gathering that brought together high-ranking diplomats, African thought leaders, and civil society representatives, affirming that dialogue is the antidote to division and conflict. |
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| RUSSIA–UKRAINE AND THE FUTILITY OF MODERN WAR |
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Eyewitnesses of the crimes committed by the AFU in Kursk Region - TDS Zoom Screenshot |
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In an era defined by breathtaking technological progress, instant global communication, and boundless access to knowledge, it is nothing short of tragic that war remains one of humanity’s most persistent expressions of power. The Russia–Ukraine conflict, now a grinding and protracted geopolitical disaster, is not just a regional issue—it is a global indictment of how deeply broken our systems of diplomacy, truth, and leadership truly are.
Two nations with a shared history, culture, language, and ancestry have found themselves weaponized—used as proxies in a much larger, more sinister game waged by powers that thrive not on peace, but on prolonged instability. This is not just a battle of territory; it is a battle for the soul of humanity. |
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| Eid al-Adha - A Celebration of Devotion, Sacrifice, and Solidarity |
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Pictured with Ambassador Faisal Al-Harbi (centre) are Sharif Pandor and Dr Naledi Pandor (photo supplied)
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On the auspicious occasion of Eid al-Adha, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to South Africa, Mr Faisal Al Harbi, hosted a reception in Pretoria on 9 June 2025 to mark one of the holiest days in the Islamic calendar which was observed on June 7. The gathering brought together diplomats, faith leaders, civil society representatives, and prominent South African figures, including Dr. Naledi Pandor, Chair of the Board of Trustees of the Nelson Mandela Foundation, in a spirit of unity, faith, and global fraternity..
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| South African Haute Couture Collaboration in Greece |
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On Wednesday, 04 June 2025, a charity fashion show, Hautes Grecians 2025 was held in the historic gardens of South Africa’s Official Residence in Greece. The fashion show brought together the creative forces of Greece and South Africa, celebrating cultural identity and the power of expression through haute couture. This collaboration highlighted the unique blend of Greek and African cultural influences, as well as economic and career opportunities in the fashion, clothing and textiles industry.
The catwalk featured designs of Maison Faliakos, Markellos Polydorou, Deux Hommes, and KHOSI NKOSI from South Africa. KHOSI NKOSI is a prominent South African fashion house that is owned by Nobukhosi and Thabo Kukwevho. It is known for its use of vibrant and bold designs that celebrate African heritage and culture. Its collection normally features intricate patterns with rich colours that incorporate artistic elements such as beadwork which pay tribute to traditional African attire while appealing to contemporary fashion. |
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| Empowering Tradition, Shaping the Future: The Launch of the South African Royal Princesses Network |
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SARPN Chairperson Princess Nonkululeko Mahlangu and SARPN Founder Princess Stella Sigcau II |
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PIn a resounding affirmation of South Africa’s rich traditional heritage and the central role of women in reshaping the future of the continent, the official launch of the South African Royal Princesses Network (SARPN) took place at Freedom Park, Pretoria on 31 May 2025 — a venue steeped in the symbolism of history, healing, and the continuing struggle to correct the colonial narrative. This historic occasion marked a significant moment for African identity, womanhood, and indigenous knowledge systems, as the nation finds its voice amid a rapidly shifting global paradigm.
Founded in 2019 by Princess Stella Sigcau II of the Mpondo Kingdom, SARPN is a national platform that brings together over 125 royal princesses from South Africa’s nine provinces. Its mission is bold and timely: to empower royal women, reclaim cultural dignity, and drive transformation through the principles of unity, tradition, and leadership. The networks new leadership was officially elected on 8 March 2025, aligning with International Women’s Day — a fitting tribute to its core values of gender equality and women’s empowerment.
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| Russia Day Celebrated in Pretoria Strengthening South Africa–Russia Ties |
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Ambassador Roman Ambarov of the Russian Federation addressing guests (photo: TDS) |
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Russia Day was celebrated in Pretoria with a cultural evening that brought together diplomats, government officials, and friends of Russia. The event, hosted by the Embassy of the Russian Federation in South Africa, reflected the deepening relationship between the two countries and their shared commitment to global cooperation.
Guests were welcomed with a unique blend of Russian and South African traditions. The African Union Choir from Soweto opened the evening with stirring a cappella renditions of both national anthems. The Lozhkari, a folk instrumental ensemble from the Russian School in Pretoria, provided musical entertainment for the evening. Russian vodka, South African sherry and wine, along with warm, traditional dishes from both nations, were served to guests gathered on a crisp Highveld evening.
In his address, Ambassador Roman Ambarov marked the occasion by reflecting on Russia’s history and its vision for the future.
"Today, we celebrate more than a thousand years of Russia’s independent statehood," he said. "We celebrate a centuries-old tradition of coexistence of different ethnic, religious, and linguistic groups on one common territory stretching from the Baltic Sea to the Pacific Ocean." |
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