Issued by: Office of the Executive Deputy President T.M. Mbeki
A South African newspaper, The Pretoria News, published a report on 12 November 1996, in which it alleges that Deputy President Thabo Mbeki made an unexpected visit to Zairian President Sese Seko Mobutu in the South of France at the "personal request" of French President Mr Jacques Chirac.
The Office of the Executive Deputy President categorically states that Mr Mbeki did not visit President Mobutu at the request of the French President. This was an independent initiative on the part of the Deputy President following telephonic discussions between President Mandela and President Mobutu.
The meeting with President Mobutu constitutes part of the South African Government's contribution towards the resolution of the conflict in Eastern Zaire and to create the necessary conditions for the supply of aid to refugees.
It is therefore incorrect to suggest that this initiative was taken at the "personal request" of the French President.
Issued by: Thami Ntenteni Director: Communications
Date: 14 November 1996
Enquiries: Ricky Naidoo