3 August 2006
The South African government will co-sponsor, together with the Gift of the
Givers and the Christian Maronite Church, a humanitarian aid flight to Lebanon
today Thursday, 3 August 2006.
The South African government will undertake this initiative following a
decision by President Thabo Mbeki at the Cabinet Lekgotla that South Africa
would provide humanitarian aid to Lebanon once it was ascertained what was
required.
In this regard, the South African government will provide R800 000 towards
the cost of the relief aircraft carrying 40 tons of relief supplies and R1,2
million towards the United Nations Office for the co-ordination of Humanitarian
Affairs.
The Non-Governmental Organisation, the Gift of the Givers, will provide 40
tons of medical supplies and a team consisting of relief workers and
representatives of various non-governmental organisations.
The South African government reiterates its call for an unconditional
ceasefire in Lebanon and the immediate opening of the humanitarian
corridors.
The South African government also appeals to the people of South Africa to
continue to mobilise support for the people of Palestine and Gaza at this time
of human catastrophe.
Enquiries:
Ronnie Mamoepa
Cell: 082 990 4853
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
3 August 2006
Source: SAPA
