17 October 2000
The South African Government has noted with keen interest the outcome of the Sharm al-Sheikh Summit in Egypt.
The South African Government welcomes the participation of UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, European Union Foreign Relations and Security Commissioner Javier Solana, along with leaders from the region, President Mubarak of Egypt and King Abdullah II of Jordan, as well as US President Bill Clinton.
The Government reiterates its full support for all initiatives that bring peace and stability, thereby avoiding further loss of life, injury, destruction of property and other forms of suffering. The South African Government welcomes the agreement regarding Israeli troop withdrawal and lifting the blockade on the Palestinian territories, as well as the re-opening of the Gaza International Airport. It is trusted that these measures will go a long way in defusing tensions and creating the necessary conditions for the speedy resumption of the Middle East Peace Process.
The South African Government welcomes the decision to establish a Fact-finding Commission and believes that it should work in conjunction with the United Nations, in keeping with the UN's mandate to act as custodian of world peace and security.
The South African Government believes that the Sharm al-Sheikh Summit represents but only a step in the right direction.
For more information please contact Basetsana Thokoane, Director: Media Communications, Cell No: 083 443 7740 or 012 351-0174
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
PRIVATE BAG X152
Pretoria
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