Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
31 May 2002
The build up of military forces along the Line of Control in Kashmir, as part of growing hostilities between India and Pakistan is a source of growing concern for the South African Government. Accordingly, the South African Government calls on leaders of both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint and embark upon a peaceful resolution of their differences.
The South African Government reiterates its oft repeated view that the can be no military solution to political problems. On the contrary, we know too the consequences of war - pain, suffering and death for ordinary Indians and Pakistanis.
The threat of nuclear war is looming large. This would serve neither the interests of the people of the region, nor humanity as a whole.
The entire membership of the United Nations and indeed the Commonwealth and Non Aligned Movement, to which both countries belong, would expect nothing short of a categorical commitment to a peaceful resolution of a bilateral situation that has serious international implications
We join the family of nations in calling on both sides to take concrete steps in addressing the current situation while addressing the fundamental problems that have led to the current military build up.
For further information contact Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853.