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International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Marius Fransman met with the family of Professor Cyril Karabus today, Thursday, 10 January 2013 in Cape Town.

Professor Cyril Karabus, a South African citizen, who is an emeritus professor at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and specialist pediatric oncologist, has been in detention in Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) since 19 August 2012 in connection with a case dating back to 2002/03. He is currently out on bail.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has rendered extensive consular assistance to Professor Karabus and his family since August 2012. International Relations and Cooperation Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane has written a letter to her UAE counterpart requesting that the UAE authorities deal with the case in an expeditious and fair manner as it is placing strain on the existing good relations between South Africa and the UAE in the field of medical cooperation. Furthermore, the UAE Ambassador to South Africa has been summoned by the department to express South Africa’s concerns on the issue. The South African Government called on the Government of the UAE to expedite the matter and to bring it to finalisation as quickly as possible.

During his meeting with the family of Professor Karabus, Deputy Minister Fransman briefed the family of the South African Government’s efforts to assist Professor Karabus. The Deputy Minister conveyed to the family that the South African Government is taking all the necessary steps to ensure that Professor Karabus receives a fair and just trial and that such efforts are taking place at a high level.

Deputy Minister Fransman stated that the South African Embassy in Abu Dhabi continues to render consular services to Professor Karabus to the best of their ability.

Although it is not possible for South Africa to influence or interfere with the judicial process in another sovereign country, Deputy Minister Fransman did stress however, that Government will remain seized with the matter till it is concluded.

Deputy Minister Fransman encouraged the Karabus family to feel free to contact the department at any time for support and assistance.

Mrs Karabus and the family thanked the department for the support rendered to her husband and wished for a speedy resolution to the case and for Professor Karabus’s return to South Africa to be with his family.

Deputy Minister Fransman was accompanied by officials from the department.