The South African Government has learned with great shock of the news of the torrential rains, floods and landslides, which left thousands of people dead and many still unaccounted for in Venezuela.
President Thabo Mbeki on behalf of the South African government and people, has expressed heartfelt condolences and sympathy to the Government of Venezuela as well as the families of the victims. The Department of Foreign Affairs is in constant contact with our embassy in Caracas, which reported that all the staff members are accounted for and that the Mission and its premises are without any damage. The Department will continue to monitor the situation closely.
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
Pretoria
22 DECEMBER 1999