7 October 2002
President Thabo Mbeki, on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa today, Monday 07 October 2002, conveyed the following message of condolences to Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands following the death of His Royal Highness, Prince Claus:
"It is with great shock that we received the sad news of the passing away of His Royal Highness, Prince Claus, the Prince Consort on Sunday 6 October in Amsterdam.
"Please accept, Your Majesty, our sincere and deepest condolences on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa and be assured of our prayers at this time of great sorrow. As a friend of the Netherlands, we are with you in our thoughts in this difficult period.
"Prince Claus will be remembered for the diligent manner in which he carried out his Royal duties and his passion and commitment not only to the people of the Netherlands, but also for his support for the development of Africa and its people. In recognition of his dedication, Former President Nelson Mandela bestowed the Order of Good Hope on Prince Claus in 1996.
"We also fondly remember the State Visit that the Royal couple paid to South Africa in September 1996.
"Your Majesty, may you and the members of the Royal family, as well as the people of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, receive solace during this time of grief"
Issued by Department of Foreign Affairs