The South African Government Announces the Official Visit to South Africa by the Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq Mr Tariq Aziz, 3rd-8th July 2002

The Department of Foreign Affairs has today, Tuesday, 2nd July 2002 announced that Tariq Aziz, the Deputy Prime Minister of Iraq, will, at the invitation of Deputy President Jacob Zuma, pay an official visit to South Africa from 3 to 8 July 2002. The Deputy President extended the invitation to Mr Aziz following the South African humanitarian flight which conveyed medical and baby food supplies to the people of Iraq in June 2001. It has however, only been possible to schedule the visit at this time.

The South African Government intends to exchange views with Mr Tariq Aziz on the situation in the Middle East and, in particular, on the expected effects of the new sanctions regime for the people of Iraq who have been subject to severe suffering by more than ten years of stringent international sanctions. There will also be discussions on ways of breaking the impasse on weapons inspections. During his visit Mr Aziz will hold political discussions with Deputy President Jacob Zuma and with Deputy Minister Pahad. The Minister of Health, Dr Mantombazana Tshabalala-Msimang and the Minister of Minerals and Energy Affairs, Ms Phumzile Mlambo Ngcuka will also have bilateral meetings with Deputy Prime Minister Tariq Aziz.

For further information contact Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853.
Issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001
2 July 2002