UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged South Africa to end xenophobic attacks and intimidation of foreign nationals in the country.

Guterres, in a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mr Stéphane Dujarric, expressed deep concern over the situation in the country and strongly condemned criminal acts and incitement to violence against migrants in parts of KwaZulu-Natal and Eastern Cape Province.

He reminded the international community that South Africa’s own struggle against apartheid was built on a foundation of global and African solidarity.

“Violence, vigilantism and all forms of incitement to hatred have no place in an inclusive, democratic society,” he said.

The UN scribe noted that South Africa’s development has long been shaped by the contributions of people from across the continent.

He acknowledged complex socio-economic challenges and welcomed the Government’s commitment to the National Action Plan against Racism and Xenophobia.

The secretary-general advised that all investigations into recent violence against foreign nationals be prompt, independent, and impartial.

The UN scribe extended his greetings to the nation while marking South Africa’s Freedom Day