South African Government welcomes Developments in Myanmar

Pretoria – South African Foreign Minister Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma today Friday 26 October 2007 welcomed developments in Myanmar that saw talks between opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi and the military junta.

Minister Dlamini Zuma said, “The South African government believes that only negotiations between all parties without preconditions would lead to the resolution of the country’s challenges.”

Minister Dlamini Zuma continued, “The South African government supports the efforts by the international community, including those of the UN Secretary-General’s Special Envoy Ibrahim Gambari to facilitate dialogue in Myanmar that would bring about a resolution to the country’s challenges.”

“We further welcome the fact that Paolo Sergio Pinheiro, Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Myanmar, said he will be allowed by the Myanmar authorities to visit the country on 17 November.”

“The South African government urges all parties to remain committed to finding a long term and lasting solution to the challenges in Myanmar,” concluded Minister Dlamini Zuma.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

26 October 2007