High Commissioner Dr. Sohail Khan and Deputy High Commissioner met with Dr. Naledi Pandor, Minister for International Affairs, at Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)

High Commissioner Dr. Sohail Khan and Deputy High Commissioner met with Dr. Naledi Pandor, Minister for International Affairs, on 09 September,2019 at Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), to raise and discuss the issue of xenophobia and particularly the victimization of Pakistani community in South Africa in wake of recent attacks on the business of Pakistani citizens in Pretoria (8 persons reported their complaints in writing to the High Commission).

The Minister assured full cooperation to work with High Commission to find the solution of the problem which she said is very deep-rooted and toxic mix of poverty and inequality in the society.

Later on, a separate meeting was also held with Deputy Commissioner Police Mr. Masemola, who was also apprised of the Pakistani community’s concerns. He expressed his resolve to take actions against the accused and promised to ensure the meeting with the concerned station commanders where Pakistani community businesspersons have been deprived of their businesses.

In parallel, the High Commissioner has also solicited meeting with Minister for Police and Home Affairs, as well, to find out a workable solution to this deep-rooted problem.

The High Commission would continue to make efforts for the security of individuals and community’s business in South Africa. In case of any emergency everyone is requested to report the incident to the High Commission immediately.

Pretoria
09 September, 2019