Cape Town — Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni says the UAE president and ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan and his entourage’s visit to South Africa last week was private and there was nothing untoward about it.
“We are here today to share with the nation that this visit has been made possible with the diligence and integrity required of government as we interact with people from all walks of life, including persons of the standing of the UAE President,” said Ntshavheni, according to SA News.
The minister was speaking at the briefing held in Pretoria to provide details of the preparation government undertook for Al Nahyan’s private visit to the Eastern Cape.
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“Public discussion on the visit by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan and his entourage has generated a range of insinuation that suggested that something improper unfolded in the Eastern Cape’s preparation for this visit by a prestigious guest to our country,” Ntshavheni said.
She clarified that “none of this is true”.
The visit by was preceded by formal diplomatic correspondence from the UAE Government to South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco).
“This correspondence reflects the respect shown and care taken by the President of the UAE in informing South Africa of the planned visit and allowing us to make the necessary arrangements in good time.
“It is common for Heads of State and Government to visit South Africa privately, including for the purpose of obtaining medical treatment,” she said.
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Compiled by Junaid Benjamin
