Issued by: The Department of Foreign Affairs
The Secretary General of the United Nations, Mr Kofi, Annan, accompanied by Mrs Annan, will pay his first visit to Africa since his election to his new office when he arrives in South Africa on 19 March 1997.
Mr Annan will meet with President Mandela for discussions on current matters of mutual interest and concern. These will include the crisis in the Great Lakes region and the respective roles of South Africa and the United Nations in seeking solutions.
The Secretary General is also scheduled to meet with Deputy President Thabo Mbeki and Deputy Foreign Ministers Aziz Pahad as well as with Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Chairman of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Dr Frene Ginwala, Speaker of the National Assembly, will host a luncheon in Mr Annan's honour and accompany him on a tour of the three assembly chambers. Mr Annan and his delegation will also visit Robben Island during their stay.
In celebration of Constitution Week, Deputy Minister Pahad, on behalf of the South African Government, will present the Secretary General with a copy of South Africa's new constitution in a symbolic gesture of appreciation for the United Nations' unwavering commitment to the struggle for democracy in this country."
On the occasion of Human Rights day on Friday 21 March 1997, Mr Annan will address the South African Institute of International Affairs on "South Africa and the United Nations".
ISSUED BY THE DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS PRETORIA 17 MARCH 1997