President Thabo Mbeki to join UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan at the Inauguration of Portuguese President-elect Professor Anibal Cavaco Silva

Tshwane - South African President Thabo Mbeki, accompanied by Mrs. Zanele Mbeki, departs South Africa today, Wednesday 8 March for Lisbon where he will join UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan and other world leaders at the inauguration of Portuguese President-elect Professor Anibal Cavaco Silva in Portugal scheduled for Thursday, 9 March 2006.

President Thabo Mbeki's participation at the inauguration is viewed as significant within the context of South Africa's commitment to strengthen relations with countries of the European Union, especially with regard to advancing the African Agenda and the development agenda of the South.

The inauguration ceremony is expected to be attended by representatives of the 15 member states of the United Nations Security Council, as well as representatives of Mozambique, Angola, the European Union, United States of America, and other Portuguese speaking countries.

President Mbeki will conclude his visit to Portugal on Thursday, 9 March 2006 ahead of his visit to Chile where he will attend the inauguration of the first female President-designate Dr Michelle Bachelet scheduled for Saturday, 11 March 2006.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa on 082 990 4853.

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag X152
Tshwane
0001

8 March 2006