Condolences offered to the Russian Federation following the Hostage Siege in the North Ossetia Town of Beslan

President Mbeki today - Saturday, 4 September 2004 - extended the condolences of the South African government and people to the Government and people of the Russian Federation following the end of a siege at a school in the North Ossetia town of Beslan where over 200 people, including many children, were killed.

President Mbeki said, "It is with great shock and sadness that we have learnt of the loss of lives in the incident in Beslan yesterday - Friday, 3 September 2004."

"The South African government reiterates its unequivocal condemnation of acts of hostage taking and the indiscriminate use of violence which results in the death of and injury to innocent civilians."

"We join the international community in extending our deepest condolences to the Government, people, loved ones and friends of the deceased and we wish those injured a speedy recovery," concluded President Mbeki.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

c/o Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag x152
PRETORIA
0001

4 September 2004