[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
[March 18, 1991]
[Page 284]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on the President's Telephone 
Conversation With Deputy President Nelson Mandela of the African 
National Congress
March 18, 1991

    On March 6 the President spoke by telephone with Nelson Mandela, the 
Deputy President of the African National Congress. The President and Mr. 
Mandela had an extended conversation on developments in South Africa, 
focusing on the issue of sanctions, and on the Persian Gulf situation. 
Mr. Mandela recognized that the President will act on the issue of 
sanctions at the appropriate time, when the conditions in the 
Comprehensive Anti-Apartheid Act of 1986 are met. The President stated 
that numerous changes are taking place in South Africa and that it is 
necessary to keep working for this change to continue. The President 
assured Mr. Mandela that we will consult fully with him in the months 
ahead. On the Gulf, Mr. Mandela reviewed the ANC position. The President 
outlined the coalition's efforts and goals and indicated areas of 
disagreement with ANC views. It was a friendly conversation.