World Notes South Africa

Although South Africa's blacks are still a long way from gaining political equality with whites, there are ample signs that the apartheid system is crumbling -- as are the international sanctions that were erected against it. Last week Japan, following the U.S. by three months, lifted economic restrictions. A few days earlier, the Commonwealth nations decided to permit a resumption of sporting and cultural events. The changes are generally approved by the African National Congress, South Africa's leading black political group. Earlier this year, the A.N.C. gave its blessing to the resumption of certain cultural contacts, paving the way for visits by such black artists as singer Miriam Makeba and trumpeter Hugh Masekela. Since then, South Africa has been invited to field a team at the 1992 Olympics.