President Obama wishes 'speedy recovery' for ailing Mandela

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WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is wishing for a “speedy recovery” for ailing former South African President Nelson Mandela.

The 94-year-old Mandela is currently in a Johannesburg hospital, receiving treatment for a recurring lung infection.

White House spokesman Jay Carney says Obama, the first lady and everyone at the White House are concerned about Mandela’s health. Carney says they all wish Mandela a “speedy recovery.”

Obama and first lady Michelle Obama are scheduled to depart at the end of June on a three-country trip to Africa, including a visit to South Africa. Other stops are scheduled for Senegal and Tanzania.

Obama and Mandela met when Obama was a U.S. senator. Mrs. Obama met Mandela when she traveled to South Africa on her own in 2011.

Copyright 2013 The Associated Press.