The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, has sent a letter to her counterpart in the Philippines, Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Mr Domingo L Siazon, in which she reiterated the South African Government’s appeal that force should not be used in resolving this matter. She also appealed that the hostages continue to have access to food, water, medicines and other necessities on a regular basis.
High Commissioner Lindiwe Mabuza received an extensive briefing from the hostage negotiator appointed by the Philippine Government, Mr Nur Misuari, regarding the geo-political situation in the area. She was, however, not able to see the hostages.
The Secretary of Foreign Affairs of the Philippines, Mr Domingo L Siazon, this morning in a briefing to foreign diplomatic representatives in Manila, confirmed that the hostages are housed together and none of the hostages are medically in a life-threatening situation.
Representatives of the families of the South African hostages had a meeting with the Philippine Ambassador, Mr Willakorte, yesterday in which they were briefed on the efforts of the Philippine Government in trying to resolve the hostage crisis situation.
Enquiries : Dumisani Rasheleng
Cell Phone: 083-709 8166
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
PRIVATE BAG X152
Pretoria
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05 MAY 2000