The South African Government has noted the submission to the United Nations Security Council by US Secretary of State Colin Powell and the response thereto by other members of the Council on Wednesday 5 February 2003.

The debate reaffirms South Africa's view of the centrality of the United Nations in dealing with matters that impact on global peace and security as well as the necessity to maintain unity and cohesion in tackling challenges facing humanity.

The Government expresses its hope that this as well as any other information will be handed over to the UN Weapons Inspectors to facilitate their ongoing work in Iraq. In this regard, the Government again urges the Iraqi leadership to offer its full and pro-active co-operation with the UN Weapons Inspectors.

In pursuance of this objective, President Thabo Mbeki has directed Deputy Minister Aziz Pahad to visit Iraq as part of efforts aimed at averting war. Deputy Minister Pahad will depart South Africa on Friday 7 February 2003.