Mbeki says power problem can be overcome

CAPE TOWN (Reuters) - President Thabo Mbeki said on Friday South Africa could overcome in a "relatively short period" a power supply crisis that has hurt the mining industry and raised concerns among foreign investors.

Power shortages last month forced gold and platinum miners in South Africa -- a leading producer of both metals -- to shut down for five days, pushing global prices for the commodities to record highs.

"We are a minerals resource economy. We must therefore continue to support the mining industry."