Condolences to the People and Government of New Zealand on the Earthquake in Christchurch 

President Jacob Zuma and Government of South Africa express their condolences at the news of the earthquake that has caused loss of human life and substantial damage to properties and infrastructure in Christchurch, on 22 February 2011.

We also wish to express our support to the government and people of New Zealand for the commitment, dedication and tenacity with which they are doing everything in their power to assist the affected inhabitants of the area.

We include in our prayers the families and friends of the unfortunate citizens who have perished in this natural disaster and hope that they will find solace in the outpouring of sympathy from people of goodwill from across the world.

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
Private bag X152
Pretoria

22 February 2011