Media Statement on the situation in Egypt

The Government of South Africa notes with concern the recent events unfolding in the Arab Republic of Egypt and continues to monitor the situation with interest. The Government of South Africa calls on the Government and people of Egypt to seek a speedy and peaceful resolution to the current crisis. The resolution of this crisis will without doubt pave the way for a new era in Egypt.

Government calls on all South Africans who are currently in Egypt to remain indoors and in their present location until the current situation returns to normal and to remain in contact with the South African Embassy for updates on the current situation.

Earlier today, officials at the South African Mission in Egypt managed to meet with South African citizens who were stranded at Cairo Airport.

After the meeting, the officials from the Mission met with Egypt Air Manager who managed to arrange a flight from Cairo to OR Tambo via Istanbul, Turkey (Flight no MS 737).

Following our intervention, all South African citizens who were at the Airport are safely boarding to South Africa with the assistance of the mission.

Family members in South Africa may contact the Department’s Consular Section on (012) 351 1000 for any assistance that they may require.

It is also recommended that travellers contact their airlines as well as their travel agents to verify matters of planned travel to Egypt.

For further information, please contact Mr Clayson Monyela, spokesperson for DIRCO, on 082 884 5974.

ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION

OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Rietondale
Pretoria

31 January 2011