The role of Parliament in the process is stipulated under section 231(1) of the 1996 Constitution of the Republic of South Africa. To this effect, holding of negotiations and the signing of international agreements were within the competency of the Executive. Nevertheless, the approval of Parliament is required so that these agreements shall be binding. The approval should be granted by the two Houses of Parliament (section 231(2)) thereto. Although Parliament has the power to 'agree to' or 'approve' treaties, the actual ratification is undertaken by the Executive. The latter also signs the Instrument of Ratification and deposits it to a requisite organisation/state.