28 August 2002
Wednesday, 28 August 2002: South African Minister of Social Development, Dr. Zola Skweyiya has said that the problem of civil society access to the WSSD process has been resolved and that the South African government is committed to continue to assist and ensure that they not only play a meaningful role in the World Summit for Sustainable Development, but most importantly, in enriching the policy processes on sustainable development in general.
"We are happy that the intervention of the SA government has led to the amicable resolution of the problem related to civil society access to the WSSD and we will do everything possible to further enhance civil society involvement. We believe that civil society has a critical role to play in the development of policies and programmes that will enhance sustainable development. Even more importantly, they can enhance public participation in the building of a better world for all." said the Minister.
The Minister further said that during yesterday's negotiations between the representatives of civil society and the United Nations regarding civil society access, United Nations agreed among others that::
Minister Skweyiya said that the consultations and communication lines established between President Thabo Mbeki and the representatives of civil society organisations from across the globe will continue, with a view to ensuring that the pertinent issues do inform the WSSD outcomes.
President Mbeki has held two consultative meetings with civil society leaders during the past ten days and another meeting is scheduled before the Heads of State and government meeting next week.
Issued by : South African Ministry of Social Development