The World - News from March 7, 1988

South Africa proposed a direct deal with the Soviet Union to resolve Angola’s civil war and set up a neutral government there. South African Defense Minister Magnus Malan, referring to the anticipated Soviet troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, said that if Moscow clearly states that it is not interested in a pro-Soviet government in Angola, Pretoria will say that it will not try to establish a pro-South African regime there. South Africa backs Angolan rebels with supplies and troops, while Moscow arms and advises the Marxist government. About 40,000 Cuban troops help Angolan government forces.