The Department's budget vote was informed by South Africa's strategic vision for the country, region, continent and the world. In pursuit of the country's foreign policy objectives, it would be acting in support of Government's medium term strategic objectives and the twelve strategic outcomes. Outcome 11 focussing on external relations is the responsibility of the Department. It has also taken due cognisance of the recommendations in Chapter 7 of the National Development Plan 2030. It reported as fully aware of the great responsibility placed on it to contribute to a better life for all in South Africa and in Africa. It has thus undertaken to achieve the mandate through pursuing the high- level objectives of the enhanced African Agenda and sustainable development; strengthen political and economic integration of the Southern African Development Community (SADC); strengthen South-South relations; strengthen relations with the strategic formations of the North; participate in global system of governance; and strengthen political and economic relations.