President Thabo Mbeki offers Condolences to Indonesian President

Pretoria - South African President Thabo Mbeki today Tuesday 18 July 2006 extended the condolences of the South African government and people to his Indonesian counterpart President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono following the earthquake and subsequent tsunami south of Java Island in Indonesia on Monday 17 July 2006.

In a message of support to President Yudhoyono President Mbeki said, "Please accept the heartfelt condolences of the South African government and people following the earthquake and subsequent tsunami south of Java Island in Indonesia on Monday 17 July 2006 in which hundreds are reported to have died, scores injured and dispossessed and infrastructure destroyed."

"The thoughts and prayers of the South African government and people are with the government and people of Indonesia. In this moment of devastation and bereavement, we offer our condolences to those who have lost loved ones and wish those wounded a speedy recovery."

"The South African government stands ready to assist the government and people of Indonesia at this time of national mourning," concluded President Thabo Mbeki.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

18 July 2006