Relations between South Africa and Rwanda are "unsustainable" and in their current form require urgent attention, a senior South African official said on Wednesday.

Bulelwa Kiva, acting chief director for East Africa at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, made the remarks during a virtual briefing for Parliament's Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation.

She said attempts to restore normal diplomatic relations have been delayed by scheduling challenges involving senior officials from both sides, though dialogue continues.

Kiva added that senior representatives have met on the sidelines of multilateral gatherings to discuss rebuilding bilateral ties, including visa matters.

"South Africa and Rwanda are committed to this process and to resuscitating the Joint Commission of Cooperation," Kiva said.