South African Government Statement on the Earthquake in Indonesia

Pretoria-South African Diplomatic missions in the South East Asia Region continue to monitor developments following the devastating earthquake that struck off the coast of Sumatra Islands on Monday 28 March 2005.

In this regard, the diplomatic missions are in liaison with authorities in the affected areas with a view to determining whether there were any South Africans affected by the earthquake.

At this stage, however, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, has not received any reports of South African injuries or casualties from either our diplomatic missions or Indonesian authorities.

Nonetheless, South African diplomatic missions in the region continue to monitor and report to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Pretoria on developments on an ongoing basis.

South Africa reiterates its heartfelt condolences to the Government and peoples of Indonesia following this disaster. As President Thabo Mbeki said earlier today, South Africa stands ready to assist the people of Indonesia during these trying times, within its limited resources.

At this stage, however, no request for assistance has been received from the Indonesian authorities.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853
Department of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001
29 March 2005