President Barack Obama told reporters Friday that he doesn’t need a photo-op with South African statesman Nelson Mandela, who is said to be be near death.
“I don’t need a photo-op, and the last thing I want to do is to be in any way obtrusive at a time when the family is concerned about Nelson Mandela’s condition,” he told reporters as his air fleet flew into South Africa, carrying the president and his entourage of security guards, political aides, media crews and communications gear.
Obama’s advanced squadron of cargo aircraft has already delivered an initial wave of security guards, aides and armored limousines to the country.
Obama declined to respond when asked about Mandela’s medical condition, which threatens to upstage Obama’s high-profile trip to the southern Africa.
“Right now, our main concern is with his well-being, his comfort, and with the family’s well-being and comfort,” Obama said in a brief “gaggle” with reporters on board Air Force One. (RELATED: Obama’s push for gay rights in Africa gets shot down)
“So when we get there we’ll gauge the situation, but I think the main message we’ll want to deliver if not directly to him but to his family is simply our profound gratitude for his leadership all these years and that the thoughts and prayers of the American people are with him, and his family, and his country,” said Obama, whose $100 million trip has already taken him to Senegal.
“I think in that sense, the sentiment of Americans is universally shared around the world,” Obama said.