The South African Government conveys condolences following reports of plane crash in Central Cuba

The President of the Republic, HE Mr Jacob G. Zuma, has today Friday 5 November 2010, on behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, as well as on his own behalf, extended the country’s deepest condolences to the President and the people of Cuba as well as the other countries whose citizens fell victim to the crash of flight 833 Aero Caribbean airline in central Cuba.    

The passengers included citizens from Latin America, Europe and Japan. “As the government and the people of South Africa, we can only but share in your pain and sorrow arising from the deaths of your compatriots.”

Furthermore, President Zuma said: “Please accept our heartfelt condolences as we share in the pain and sorrow occasioned by this tragic plane crash to the members of the bereaved families.

“Accordingly, we reach out to the governments and peoples of your countries, and indeed members of the bereaved families in particular, in prayer and thought during this period of mourning,” concluded President Zuma.

For further information, please contact DIRCO’s Chief Director for Public Diplomacy, Mr Saul Kgomotso Molobi, on 082 940 1647/ molobis@dirco.gov.za or Chief Director of Communications in the Presidency, Ms Zanele Mngadi, at 082 330 1148.

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
0001

05 November 2010