Prof Kader Asmal to represent South Africa and President Thabo Mbeki at the inauguration of Bolivian President-elect Evo Morales

Tshwane – Prof Kader Asmal today Friday 20 January 2006 departed from South Africa for Bolivia where he will represent South Africa and President Thabo Mbeki at the inauguration of Bolivian President-elect Evo Morales on Sunday, 22 January 2006.

President-elect Evo Morales recently visited South Africa and met among others, President Thabo Mbeki and other leaders of different political persuasions to share experiences on South Africa’s transition to democracy.

In December 2005 President Mbeki congratulated President-designate Morales on his inauguration saying, "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."

In his message of support, President Mbeki further assured President-elect Morales that the South African government stood ready to assist the government and people of Bolivia on their road to democracy in any way it could.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853
Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Tshwane
0001
20 January 2006