Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
12 September 2001
At this stage no confirmation of South Africans being affected has been received. However rescue missions are continuing. The department is aware of suggestions that there might have been South Africans either in the World Trade Centre and/or ill-fated flights. We are following these details and as soon as confirmation is received, this will be communicated to the next of kin and the public.
South African missions in Washington and New York are in constant communication with USA airlines and security agencies to ascertain whether indeed there are any South Africans that may have been affected.
In this regard, the missions are awaiting the release of passenger lists from: American and United Airlines this afternoon, USA time.
In addition, both missions have requested all South Africans in the USA to register with the SA mission in Washington and New York.
CONFERENCES/SUMMITS
Future of UN General Assembly Summit on Children will be made this afternoon at 15h00 USA time.
Corporate Council on Africa which as sponsoring the USA-Africa Business Summit, and which was scheduled to honour Presidents Mbeki, Obasanjo, Bouteflika and Wade, has now been postponed indefinitely.
MESSAGES OF SUPPORT/FLAGS
SA Missions in the USA have opened web pages to enable South African citizens currently in the USA to send their messages of condolences. The Address: usaembassy.southafrica.net
SA Missions in the USA report that the USA authorities are touched by messages of support and offers of humanitarian support from South Africa.
SA Missions in Washington and New York Missions are flying flags at half-mast.
For more information contact:
Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853
Basetsana Thokoane at 083-443-7740
Nazeem Mahatey at 082-376-3820
Tasneem Carrim at 083-650-7119