The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, is gravely concerned about the news of a military takeover in Pakistan, which has seen the removal of the democratically elected government in that country.
Minister Dlamini-Zuma appeals to the military authorities for an immediate restoration of civilian rule in Pakistan and considers the latest developments to be a serious setback for the cause of democracy and a dangerous and unacceptable violation of that country's constitution. The Minister feels that it is not only imperative to ensure that the wishes of the Pakistani people are protected, as expressed in the last democratic elections, but also to promote stability and peace in a region which has been characterised by recently rising tensions.
The personnel of the South African High Commission are all safe and the Department will continue to monitor the situation.
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
Pretoria
13 OCTOBER 1999