President Thabo Mbeki extends condolences to Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad

Pretoria – South African President Thabo Mbeki conveyed the sorrow and condolences of the South African government and people to President Ahmadinejad, the Government and people of the Islamic Republic of Iran following the plane crash in Mashhad on Friday 01 September 2006.

In a message of support to President Ahmadinejad, President Mbeki said, “The Government and people of South Africa join the Government and people of Iran in mourning the loss of your compatriots who perished in a plane crash on 1 September 2006.”

“We understand the pain and grief that this tragedy has brought not only to the families of those who lost their loved ones but also to the entire Iranian nation. It is our hope that bereaved families can draw inspiration from the knowledge that their loss is shared by the peoples of the world.

“Accordingly, Your Excellency, please accept the heartfelt condolences of the Government and peoples of South Africa to the Government and people of Iran especially those who lost their loved ones” concluded President Mbeki.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

1 September 2006