President Thabo Mbeki congratulates President Lula da Silva on his re-elections as President of Brazil

Pretoria- South African President Thabo Mbeki today, Tuesday 31 October 2006 joined the international community in extending his warmest congratulations to President Lula da Silva on his re-election as President of Brazil.
In this regard, President Mbeki said "I have the honour to convey on behalf of the Government and people of the Republic of South Africa, sincere congratulations on your re-election as President of the Federative Republic of Brazil.

"Since the advent of democracy in both countries bilateral relations between our two nations have strengthened steadily over the years. Both our countries share a unique and common challenges domestically and internationally, hence our strategic partnership in promoting the African Agenda and South-South co-operation. The India, Brazil, South Africa Dialogue Forum (IBSA) attest to our commitment for promoting social and economic development, continued President Mbeki

"May I take this opportunity to assure you of the South African government's continued goodwill and desire to work towards a further deepening of these relations" concluded President Mbeki.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853
Department of foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001
31 October 2006.