Update on the Evacuation of South Africans from Lebanon : 11 South Africans arrive safely in Cyprus this morning, Friday, 21 July 2006

Pretoria: The Department of Foreign Affairs was earlier this morning advised by its Embassy in Athens, of the safe arrival of its nationals in Cyprus on board a British ship. The 11 South Africans were received by the South African mission officialsn currently in Cyprus.

This brings to 16, the number of South Africans evacuated as part of the trilateral co-operation between the South African, British and French governments. 5 South Africans were earlier assisted by the French authorities and are also in Cyprus.

In this regard, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma reiterates her sincere appreciation to both the British and French governments for their assistance.

Further, a South African national living in Cyprus offered accomodation to evacuated South Africans prior to their onward travel to South Africa.It is such unselfish acts of ubuntu that makes us feel proud to be South African, said Minister Dlamini Zuma on being informed of this gesture.

Both the missions in Syria and Athens will continue to assist South Africans affected as the evacuation effort continues.

Issued by Nomfanelo Kota on 082 459 3787

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag x 152
Pretoria
0001

21 July 2006