Xenophobic attacks in South Africa

BBC

China would like to draw these Xenophobic attacks in South Africa to the GA attention.

We seek reassurances from the South African Government that these attacks such as rape and murder will not be tolerated.

Reply 1

Student2806

Spain concurs with China that xenophobic attacks cannot be tolerated, and is pleased to hear that the deployment of troops is being considered by the government of South Africa.

Reply 2

Birchington

South Korea would like to concur with China and Spain, but hopes that the situation in South Africa can be resolved without the need of military intervention.

Reply 3

UnaChance

The USA would also liked to agree with the other delegates and hopes these issues will be resolved soon.

Reply 4

Captain Biggles

Any attack on this level should be dealt with harshly and promptly, and Afghanistan hopes to see the South African government dealing with these attacks in such a manner.

Reply 5

rhubarb100

The Republic of South Africa acknowledges with deep sadness the reports of attacks since May 11 in and around the Gauteng area of the country, as reported by the BBC. The Republic of South Africa condemns these atypical and unjust attacks in the strongest possible terms.

The Republic of South Africa is grateful to the nations of China, Spain, South Korea, United States of America and Afghanistan for their expressions of concern. The representatives of those nations can be assured that the Republic of South Africa does not and will not tolerate violent action of any kind, or rape, or indeed any other offence which is illegal under the laws of the Republic of South Africa, or International Law.

The Republic of South Africa views the question of possible military intervention as a decision which does not rest with politicians, domestic or international. Rather, it is the concern of senior managers of the police and local authorities, based on their assessment of the situation and required response on the ground.

On May 19th 2008, our President, His Excellency Mr Thabo Mbeki condemned the attacks, saying: "everything possible will be done to bring the perpetrators to book. Already, more than 200 alleged perpetrators have been arrested. Both the Minister of Safety and Security and the Acting National Police Commissioner are keeping me informed of developments and I am confident that the police will soon make significant breakthroughs."

At the United Nations, the Republic of South Africa wishes to stress that this issue is essentially domestic; that is to say it is primarily a national rather than international question. As such, whilst sincerely thankful for the concern of other member states, the Republic of South Africa is currently resolute to deal with this issue independently.

Reply 6

UnaChance

The USA would like to thank SA for their reassurances and hopes that they use their full force to ensure the lives of asylum seekers who have already been through enough in their home countries are protected.