Issued by: Office of the President
The Office of the President confirms that during President Mandela's recent State Visit to Indonesia, he met with Jose Xanana Gusmao, the imprisoned leader of FRETELIN. The meeting was at President Mandela's request, in conformity with the South African government's commitment to promoting human rights and the peaceful resolution of conflicts. Due to the sensitivity of the negotiations that are taking place within the context of recent United Nations initiatives, the President does not wish to make any further comment on this issue. However he hopes that amongst other objectives the recent visit to Indonesia will contribute to finding a solution satisfactory to all role-players.
ISSUED BY THE OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT 22 JULY 1997