During the course of the financial year, the Department would particularly focus on five strategic areas. It would focus on supporting the strengthening of the African Union (AU) Commission; expediting the implementation of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) Infrastructure Programme; ensuring that South Africa makes a positive impact as the chair of the Brazil, Russia, India, South Africa (BRICS) Forum after hosting the summit in March 2013; participating in the G20 and the G20 Development Committee and pursuing regional political and economic integration.