President Thabo Mbeki Extends Condolences to Mozambican Counterpart

Pretoria - President Thabo Mbeki has, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, conveyed his condolences to the Government and people of Mozambique through his counterpart, President Armando Guebuza.

President Mbeki's condolences follow yesterday's explosions at the fuel depot in the Mozambican capital of Maputo, which have claimed many lives.

President Mbeki has offered South Africa's assistance to help determine the cause of the explosions, and undertaken to respond to any other form of assistance the sister people of Mozambique may require during this tragic time.

In this regard, the Department of Foreign Affairs will, this weekend, lead a team of experts to Maputo to begin working with their Mozambican counterparts and authorities.

President Mbeki assured President Guebuza of South Africa's thoughts and prayers during this time of grief for the people of Mozambique.

He requested President Guebuza to convey our Government's and country's condolences to the bereaved families.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

23 March 2007