President Thabo Mbeki congratulates President Elect of Bolivia

Tshwane - South African President Thabo Mbeki today Wednesday, 28 December 2005 conveyed to the President-designate of Bolivia Evo Morales the greetings and felicitations of the South African government and people on his election in the recently held elections.

In a message of support to President-designate Evo Morales, President Mbeki said, "Your election as the President of Bolivia indicates that the tide of change continues to sweep through Latin America bringing with it the hope of political and economic transformation and development for your country and indeed the region as a whole."

"As we stand at the brink of a new-year, your election brings with it the optimism and glad tidings that 2006 will also usher in the desired fundamental socio-economic changes that your country expects."

"Please know that the government and people of South Africa stand ready to continue our co-operation in order to advance the developmental agenda of the South in general, and your country in particular," concluded President Thabo Mbeki.

Issued by Murphy Morobe on 082 463 9334

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Tshwane
0001

28 December 2005