France in South Africa and in Lesotho

The comments made on the French channel LCI during an exchange between a doctor and a researcher about the management of the Coronavirus crisis have provoked strong reactions. We are deeply shocked by these comments, that of course, do not reflect the position of the French authorities.

France stands with South Africa in the fight against Covid-19

Message by Ambassador Aurélien Lechevallier to the French people in South Africa

France took some very strong measures at the French President’s request, all with the same, single goal: to reduce contacts and journeys drastically and by every means, because this is the measure most effective in preventing as much as possible the spread of the virus.

France has been identified as a high-risk country by the South African government in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. The travel ban announced by the South African government on high-risk COVID-19 countries comes into effect on Wednesday, 18 March 2020.