_: On behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, His Excellency President Jacob Zuma has conveyed a message of condolences to the Government and people of Palestine following the passing on of the Palestinian Ambassador to South Africa, His Excellency Ali Halimeh. Ambassador Halimeh passed away on Sunday, 16 September 2012, in Pretoria.

President Zuma said: “The South African Government has learnt with shock and sadness the news of the passing on of Ambassador Ali Halimeh over the weekend in Pretoria. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Ambassador Halimeh, as well as with the Palestinian people during this difficult time of bereavement.”

The South African Government reaffirms its commitment to continue its diplomatic relations and solidarity with Palestine. South Africa identifies with the struggles of the Palestinian people and continues to support the rights of Palestinians to an independent and viable state. Arrangements are being made for the repatriation of Ambassador Ali Halimeh’s body to Palestine.