Media statement on the Dalai Lama's decision to cancel his visit to South Africa

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation has taken note of developments in respect of the visit to South Africa by His Holiness, The Dalai Lama who opted to cancel his private visit that was scheduled for 7 October 2011.  

Against this backdrop, the South African government respect the Dalai Lama's personal decision to cancel his trip and also noted the reports and enquiries with regards to the Visa application process itself. A Visa application in any country is subjected to the normal due process and the outcome is communicated to the applicant. The same principle applies in this case. 

We however believe it is necessary to highlight a number of facts. The South African High Commission in New Delhi, India reports, amongst other things that: On August 29, The office of the Dalai Lama informed the High Commission that His Holiness is traveling abroad and therefore they wished to submit the application without his passport. We are unable to process any application without a passport and the office of the Dalai Lama was informed of this. The passport was submitted on 20 September 2011.

Furthermore, we would like to reiterates that the South African government did not refuse to grant The Dalai Lama a visa. He cancelled the trip whilst his application was still under consideration.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation would also like to categorically state that our foreign policy is independent and decisions are made based on our domestic interests.

Statement issued by Mr. Clayson Monyela, spokesperson for DIRCO, October 5 2011

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