We are aware that some of our citizens have been involved in efforts aimed at undermining the UN sanctions. We shall take firm action against all those involved. South Africa will continue to advocate for a political solution to the conflict in Angola as we remain convinced that there can be no lasting military solution. With regard to the conflict between Ethiopia and Eritrea progress has been made towards the implementation of the OAU peace plan. We support the ongoing IGAD process in Sudan and hope that both parties namely the Sudanese government and SPLA will reach early settlement.
Human security is a foreign policy idea and a political imperative.
It is a responsibility placed on our agenda by the weight of public opinion that is often shocked by live television broadcast of the impact of natural disasters. Our High Commissioner, Ms Jessie Duarte acted with a sense of urgency and alerted us in a manner which enabled the Government through the Department of Foreign Affairs to act swiftly resulting in thousands of lives being saved. The support extended to Mozambique from fellow African countries with meagre resources is a true sign of African solidarity. It is with a sense of pride that Africa was seen to take the lead in this time of crisis. We welcome humanitarian support that has since flowed from other countries.