Issued by: Office of the President
STATEMENT OF THE MEETING OF UNITA AND THE SOUTH AFRICAN GOVERNMENT
Delegations of UNITA and the South African Government, led by Dr Jonas Savimbi ad President Nelson Mandela respectively, met at Umtata from 06 to 08 January 1997.
Dr Jonas Savimbi and his delegation briefed President Mandela about the progress that is being made with the implementation of the Lusaka Protocol.
The UNITA delegation reaffirmed its commitment to the implementation of the Protocol includingme of its implementation.
To illustrate its commitment, the leadership of UNITA cited the swearing in of 9 of its Generals and the integration of its military formations into the Angolan Armed Forces, the undertaking of their members to take their seats in the national legislature, the participation of its members in the government of national unity and the commitment by Dr Jonas Savimbi to participate in the program of reconciliation, reconstruction ad development of Angola.
The South African Government undertook to continue its support for the Angolan peace process.
The meeting was convinced that the difficulties encountered so far notwithstanding, a solution to the problems of Angola was within reach.
South Africa indicated her commitment to contribute in the process of reconciliation, reconstruction and development of Angola.
Both delegations expressed appreciation for the vital role a stable and democratic Angola elopment.
President Nelson Mandela has committed himself to attend the inauguration of the government of national unity in Luanda.
08 January 1997