MEDIA STATEMENT

NAM SUMMIT GOES OFF SMOOTHLY

KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Transport, Safety and Security Mr. Bheki Cele has congratulated all role-players for their dedication and hard work which contributed towards the success of yet another major event which was held in Durban this week.

The Non-Aligned Movement (Summit) and the Africa-Asia Sub-Regional Organisations Conference held at the International Convention Centre between Tuesday and Friday last week went off smoothly with no major incidents reported.

"KwaZulu-Natal has shown the world once again that we are highly capable of hosting international events. I want to thank the security services and all other role-players, including members of the SAPS, SANDF, Emergency Medical Rescue Services (EMRS), Department of Foreign Affairs, Metro Police and the many others for their commitment displayed during the summit. Our officials made many sacrifices and worked tirelessly, for which we are extremely proud and grateful. I also want to thank members of the public for their co-operation during this period. KZN has done it again," Cele said.

More than 2 000 delegates made up of foreign Ministers, National Ministers and Deputy Ministers, Ambassadors attended the two-day summit.

Detailed security plans were implemented and top-level joint briefings were held twice daily to discuss any challenges.

Tight security was maintained over these last few days to also cater for the Inkosi Albert Luthuli celebrations at KwaDukuza as well as the Tri-Nations Rugby match at the ABSA stadium in Durban. "Here too the security forces have displayed splendid character during their execution of their duties.

Traffic volumes were overwhelming but motorists have exercised extreme caution for this is what we all must continue to work toward", said Cele.

back