President Thabo Mbeki congratulates newly elected President of Argentina, Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner

Pretoria- South African President Thabo Mbeki, today, Monday 29 October 2007 extended South Africa’s congratulations to Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner on her election as President of the Argentine Republic.

In his message of support, President Mbeki said “as Please accept the warm congratulations of the government and the people of our country, South Africa, as well as my own, on your election as President of the Argentine Republic.

“Your success as the first elected woman President of Argentina must surely communicate a positive message, that there is indeed hope for millions of women around the world who continue to struggle against sexism and gender inequalities, continued President Mbeki.

“We are particularly heartened by your commitment to the social upliftment and poverty-relief programmes to address the plight of those in need in the friendly Argentine Republic. In this context, we most certainly will draw on your experience in dealing with our own challenges of the twin burdens of poverty and under-development that continue to afflict millions of our people both in our country and indeed the entire continent of Africa” further said President Mbeki.

“We look forward to working with you within the framework of the UN and other multilateral organisations as part of global efforts to create a better world for all who live in it.

“We are most certain that under your leadership, the bilateral political and economic relations between our two countries will surely gain impetus for the betterment of the lives of both our peoples, within the context of advancing South-South co-operation.

“Please accept, Madame Senator and President-elect, my personal best wishes for your own well-being and continuing success concluded President Mbeki

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

29 October 2007.