The Department of Foreign Affairs wishes to convey its heartfelt condolences to the authorities and people of Taiwan on the huge loss of life and damage caused by one of the worst natural disasters this century in Taiwan.
The thoughts of the Government and the people of South Africa are with the authorities and people of Taiwan during this difficult period. We are confident that the authorities in Taiwan will bring the situation back to normal and that the resilience and spirit of the people will rise above the ravages of this natural disaster.
According to the Liaison Office of the Republic of South Africa in Taipei, no South African casualties have been reported.
DEPARTMENT OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
Pretoria
21 SEPTEMBER 1999