10TH Anniversary of Freedom Celebrations: Press Conference in Brussels, 30 March 2004 at 11H30

Dear members of the press,

On 27 April 2004, South Africa will celebrate its national day, Freedom Day. Ten years ago to that day, the country's first free and democratic elections were held and the entire population could begin sheltering hope for a better life.

Throughout the year, a series of events will take place in Belgium and Luxembourg to mark South Africa's 10th Anniversary of Freedom. It will be an opportunity for the Belgian, the Luxembourg and the European populations to rediscover South Africa "ten years on" and to assess the country's progress as well as the challenges ahead.

At our press conference we shall inform you about the background of the celebrations and provide you with detailed information on the events and our partners in Belgium and Luxembourg. The press conference will be hosted by the Co-chairs of the working group that co-ordinated the organisation of the events, Ms. Léona Detiège and Mr. Ernest Glinne, and by Ambassador and Head of Mission J.M. Matjila.

It will take place on:

Tuesday, 30 March 2004 - 11h30-12h30 at the South African Embassy, Rue de la Loi 26, 1040 Brussels in the conference room on the eighth floor.

We cordially invite you to join us for our press conference and are looking forward to seeing you there. Please confirm your attendance before Friday 26 March 2004 by calling +32 (0)2 285 44 21 or e-mail: media@southafrica.be

Ambassador JM Matjila
Brussels, 18 March 2004