WORLD : De Klerk Denies Meeting

CAPE TOWN, South Africa — Frederik W. de Klerk, preparing for the most important speech of his presidency, was reportedly trying to decide today whether to announce the release of jailed black leader Nelson R. Mandela.

There were widespread reports that the two men would meet today, but De Klerk’s office said in a statement that no meeting took place and none was planned before the opening of Parliament on Friday.

De Klerk is expected to make major announcements Friday, possibly dealing with Mandela’s release, the legalization of banned opposition groups and at least a partial lifting of the state of emergency.