Zuma sends condolences to Australia after death of High Commissioner to SA

President Jacob Zuma sent condolences to the Australian government on Wednesday following the death of high commissioner to South Africa Graeme Wilson, the international relations department said.

"High Commissioner Wilson was a remarkable person, a true gentleman and ambassador for his country," Zuma said in a statement.

"He left no stone unturned to strengthen relations between South Africa and Australia and will always be remembered for the passion he had for Africa and, in particular, South Africa."

Wilson died in Pretoria on Tuesday after a short illness. He had held his position since January 2013.