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President Thabo Mbeki Congratulates Angela Merkel on her Inauguration
as German Chancellor Abidjan - South African President Thabo Mbeki today,
Tuesday 22 November 2005, extended South Africa's congratulations to Angela Merkel
on her historic inauguration as the first woman Chancellor of the Federal Republic
of Germany. In a message of support to Chancellor Merkel, President Mbeki
said, "on behalf of the government and people of South Africa, please accept
our warmest congratulations on your inauguration as the first woman Chancellor
of the Federal Republic of Germany. "Your inauguration to the Chancellery
is a watershed moment for the German population in general and women in particular,
and it communicates the unequivocal progressive message of Germany's willingness
to lead and set a clear positive example for the global community to emulate especially
on issues of gender, and women's rights." "In addition, the South
African government affirms the cordial relations between South Africa and Germany
and looks forward to further strengthening its bilateral relations with your country." "In
this regard, South Africa has noted and welcomed Germany's support for the New
Partnership for Africa's Developments (NEPAD) and the African Union (AU) that
enable the African continent to unlock its great potential for economic, social
and political regeneration." "The principled stance Germany has
taken in the ongoing global attempts to restructure the world multilateral fora
like the UN in order to enable it to respond adequately and effectively to the
challenges of the 21st Century, is of prime importance to Africa and indeed the
world at large. South Africa wishes Germany well in the consolidation of her efforts
for both African and global benefit." "Germany is an important
and strategic partner of South Africa in our efforts to ensure that Africa and
the South position themselves in a rightful manner to assume their legitimate
place on the world's stage. We therefore have enormous appreciation for Germany's
continued support," concluded President Mbeki.
Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa
on 082 990 4853 Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Tshwane
0001 22
November 2005
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