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In a statement on 16 September, F W de Klerk expressed the view that a visa should be granted to the Dalai Lama because South Africa is an open society that respects the freedom of religion. The F W de Klerk Foundation is accordingly deeply concerned over the debacle that has now arisen over the Dalai Lama’s visa application.

The Dalai Lama is a globally respected spiritual leader, a Nobel Peace Prize winner and a firm advocate of non-violence. It is difficult to understand, under these circumstances, the failure to grant him a visa in time for his scheduled departure for South Africa. The claim of the Department of International Relations and Co-operation that they did not refuse his visa and that it was still being processed is simply disingenuous.

There has inevitably been speculation that the decision was based on reluctance to upset the government of the People’s Republic of China. However, his visit was not official and would not have involved any formal meeting with the South African government.

All governments have responsibility to control entry into their territory. If visitors pose a potential security risk; if they have criminal associations or if they do not have the means to maintain themselves, it is quite appropriate to refuse them entry to the country. Clearly, the Dalai Lama does not fall into any of these categories.

It is also accepted that South Africa’s foreign policy should be informed by the values in our Constitution - including the principles of democratic governance; freedom of association; and freedom of religion. The Dalai Lama qualifies eminently in terms of all these values and should have been welcomed to South Africa as an honoured guest.

The manner in which this matter has been dealt with reflects poorly on all those responsible. It is also an embarrassment to all South Africans - not least of all to his host, Archbishop Tutu.