Statement from the South African Government Following Explosions in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation

The South African Government has noted with concern the explosions in Riyadh and Chechnya in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation respectively on Monday, 12th and Tuesday, 13th May 2003.

The Government of South Africa offers its deepest condolences to the governments of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation and families and friends of those killed in these explosions. Those injured are also wished a speedy recovery.

The South African Government once again reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of all acts of terrorism. In this regard, circumstances that give rise to terrorism must be fundamentally addressed if we are to succeed in uprooting the scourge of terrorism.

The South African Government expresses its confidence that the authorities in both Saudi Arabia and Russia will do everything in their power to bring the perpetrators of these dastardly acts to face the full might of the law.

For further information contact Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853.
Issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001
13 May 2003