"This is such a major decision with far-reaching implications... and it is tantamount to redefining our relationship, " the Department of International Relations and Co-operation said in a statement.

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Zeynep Kaya, a researcher at the department of International Relations of the London School of Economics, says it may have been an important factor in initiating the recent peace process.

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Bersani, 61, comes across as "bluff and homespun, and that's part of his appeal -- or not, depending on your point of view, " said political analyst James Walston, department chair of international relations at the American University of Rome.

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The 61-year-old Bersani comes across as "bluff and homespun, and that's part of his appeal -- or not, depending on your point of view, " said political analyst James Walston, department chair of international relations at the American University of Rome.

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Dr David Hine, a tutorial fellow at Oxford University's Department of Politics and International Relations, also suggests Mr Berlusconi is "highly unlikely" to end up in prison.

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South Africa's International Relations Department said the Chief of State Protocol, Bruce Koloane, had been placed on suspension while an investigation took place.

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