President Mbeki Congratulates New Prime Minister of Russian Federation

President Mbeki, today - Monday, 5 April 2004 - conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Mikhail Fradkov, on his election as Prime Minister of the Russian Federation.

President Mbeki said, "It is with great pleasure that I take this opportunity to convey to Your Excellency, on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, warm greetings and congratulations on your election as Prime Minister of the Russian Federation."

"It is my fervent wish that the good relations and excellent co-operation that already exist between our two countries could be further strengthened and consolidated for the benefit of both our countries under your able leadership."

"Prime Minister, you will have been informed that relations between our countries have expanded most satisfactorily in recent years. This should, in part, be attributed to the activities of the Inter-Governmental Committee on Economic and Trade Cooperation (ITEC)."

"In view of the fact that the next session of ITEC has been scheduled to take place in South Africa later this year, I look forward to the announcement of your country's co-chairperson to that important event."

"May I take this opportunity to also convey my best wishes for Your Excellency's personal good health, prosperity for the Russian Federation and a successful and pleasant term of office," concluded President Mbeki.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853.

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

5 April 2004