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Minister Dlamini Zuma's statement on the request to visit South Africa by former Haitian President Jean Bertrand Aristide
10 May 2004
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, in Cape Town, today, Monday, 10 May 2004, announced that the Caribbean Economic Community (CARICOM) has through the offices of the Chairperson of the African Union (AU), President Joachim Chissano of Mozambique, transmitted to the South African government a request on behalf of former Haitian President, Jean Bertrand Aristide, to visit South Africa, until his personal situation normalises.
In addition, Minister Dlamini Zuma indicated that Jamaican Foreign Minister, Keith Desmond, acting on behalf of Caricom Foreign Ministers, communicated to her Caricom's recommendation in this regard.
Accordingly and in response, Minister Dlamini Zuma will this week table before the first session of the Cabinet for decision-making the request and recommendations by Caricom and the AU for Aristide to be allowed to visit South Africa, pending resolution of his personal situation.
The South African government has always maintained that its approach to the Haitian Question will be guided by views and attitude of CARICOM and the AU on the matter.
Ronnie Mamoepa
Cell: 082 990 4853
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
10 May 2004