On behalf of the Government and the people of South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa has sent a message of condolences to the Government and the people of India, in particular the families of the deceased following the train accident on Friday, 02 June 2023, which claimed the lives of more than 200 people in the state of Odisha.

President Ramaphosa said the South African Government and people stand in solidarity with those effected by this tragedy and laud the emergency rescue and medical personnel for their tireless efforts.

President Ramaphosa added that the thoughts of the South African people are with the people of India, particularly the affected families, during this time of mourning.

South Africa and India enjoy strong historical, political, diplomatic, economic and people-to-people relations. The two countries established full diplomatic relations in 1993.

South Africa and India share several common interests, including the reform of the United Nations (UN) and Bretton Woods institutions. The two countries also cooperate in a number of multi-lateral forums, including BRICS, the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Dialogue Forum and the G20.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to President Ramaphosa – 082 835 6315

ISSUED BY THE PRESIDENCY OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA

www.thepresidency.gov.za

Pretoria