Statement by the Department of Foreign Affairs on NEPAD

The suggestion in some weekend papers that Libyan leader Col Muammar Gadaffi launched an extraordinary attack on the New Economic Partnership for Africa's Development (Nepad) during the recent state visit by President Thabo Mbeki to Libya is devoid of all truth.

In a joint communiqué issued by the two leaders at the end of the visit Col Gadaffi "expressed appreciation for the role played by President Mbeki leading to the formation of the African Union, which will be launched in Durban, South Africa, in July 2002." Col Gadaffi "commended President Mbeki for the Nepad initiative aimed at achieving sustainable development, peace and prosperity within the framework of the African Union."

During the state banquet held in honour of President Mbeki, Col Gadaffi only "cautioned against the Western countries usurping Nepad for their own interests." Indeed, the final communiqué speaks of the need for all African countries "including Libya playing a meaningful role in the implementation of Nepad." Accordingly, the Department of Foreign Affairs refutes any suggestions that Libyan leader Col Muammar Gadaffi characterised Nepad as an instrument of colonisers and racists.

ENQUIRIES : Ronnie Mamoepa
CELL : 082 990-4853
Issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs
17 June 2002