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Deputy President Jacob Zuma arrived at Sydney International Airport at 21h50 on Tuesday, 17 October to attend the opening ceremony of the 11th Paralympic Games in Sydney, Australia.

He is accompanied by:

Dr EG Pahad: Minister in The Presidency
Mr N Balfour: Minister of Sport and Recreation

The Deputy President is attending the Paralympic Games at the request of the National Paralympic Committee of South Africa (NAPCOSA), which saw his attendance as important to raise national and international awareness around issues of disability. They felt that a high profile person from the SA government would not only raise the necessary awareness in South Africa but also internationally.

The Deputy President is believed to be the highest-ranking official attending the Paralympic Games currently, the highest-ranking South African government official to visit Australia and the highest-ranking South African ever to attend the Paralympic Games.

South Africa is a leading player in international fora on the issue of the disabled and the Deputy President's presence not only underscores that but it is hoped that it will broaden the debate.

The Deputy President will, during his stay, meet with Australian business leaders and the Premier of the New South Wales State, Mr Bob Carr. He returns to South Africa on Saturday, the 21st October 2000.

Contact persons:
Mathula Magubane (in Sydney) on 082-371-1315
Lakela Kaunda (in South Africa) on 082-782-2725

Issued by: The Presidency, 17 October 2000