Deputy Miniser Aziz Pahad confirms proposed meeting between South Africa and Hamas

Tshwane - South African Deputy Minister Aziz Pahad today, Thursday 2 March 2006, confirmed the proposed meeting between the South African government with Hamas, the newly - elected government of the Palestine National Authority.

"The proposed meeting will take place within the context of ongoing efforts by South Africa under the Presidential initiative to share our experiences on the transition from apartheid to democracy with both Palestinians and the Israelis.

"With the election of Hamas by the majority of Palestinians during their recent parliamentary elections, South Africa is of the view that we need to engage with the Hamas leadership as part of international efforts to help bring about peace and stability in the Middle East.

"However, arrangements are still being made regarding the final date for the meeting between the two sides," concluded Deputy Minister Aziz Pahad.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

2 March 2006