Recently, South African President Thabo Mbeki has sent separate letters to President Hu Jintao and Premier Wen Jiabao, expressing sympathy and condolences over the great loss caused by SARS and sending his regards to medical workers in China. He said that the South African government and people stand together with the Chinese government and people in their battle against SARS. He expressed his belief that China will claim final victory over SARS.

South African Minister of Health Dr Tshabalala-Msimang also sent a letter to Vice Premier and Health Minister Wu Yi, saying that South Africa is ready to help China to prevent and treat SARS at any time.