Durban, June 30: The South African government today warned non-government organisations against staging violent protests during US president George W Bush's forthcoming visit to the country. Deputy foreign minister Aziz Pahad issued the warning following statements by several non-government outfits, including the anti-war coalition, that they would stage country-wide demonstrations on July 8 when Bush visits the country, to protest the American unilateral action on Iraq. "Our constitution allows freedom of speech and assembly but as long as these are peaceful there will be no problems", Pahad told reporters in Pretoria. Pahad said security had already been tightened in Pretoria where president Bush is to meet president Thabo Mbeki on July 9. Bush is making a two-day visit to South Africa on July 8 and 9. His visit is part of his African tour which will take him to Botswana, Uganda, Nigeria and Senegal. Pahad said this is the second time in a few years that a US president will be visiting the country. Former president Bill Clinton also visited the country.

"The US is one of the biggest investors in South Africa since 1994 and it is taking a greater interest in the African continent", said Pahad.

Meanwhile, former South African president Nelson Mandela has said he would not meet Bush when he visits the country.

The Nobel peace prize winner has sharply criticised Bush's unilateral action against Iraq bypassing the United Nations.

Bureau Report