South Africa congratulates Zimbabwe on the Formation of an Inclusive Government

Pretoria - President and Chairperson of SADC, President Kgalema Motlanthe, today Wednesday 11 February 2009 congratulated Morgan Tsvangarai and Arthur Mutambara on their assumption of the high offices of Prime Minister and Vice Prime Minister in Zimbabwe respectively.

“The swearing in of the Prime Minister and Vice Prime Minister is an important milestone towards the formation of an inclusive government in Zimbabwe as the people of Zimbabwe march towards national reconciliation, economic recovery, reconstruction and development.

“Ours as SADC and the rest of the international community therefore is to heed the voice of the Zimbabwean people and seek in word and deed to assist them as they begin the process of rebuilding their country and addressing a myriad of economic challenges facing their country

“In this regard, South Africa reiterates the call for the lifting of sanctions against the country to help create a climate conducive for the reconstruction and development of Zimbabwe.

“South Africa congratulates the leadership of SADC and the SADC Facilitator on the Zimbabwean Dialogue, former President Thabo Mbeki for their efforts in assisting the people of Zimbabwe to address their political challenges.

“South Africa and indeed the entire SADC region stands ready to support the people of Zimbabwe morally, politically and economically as they embark on this difficult path of reconstruction and development of their country,” concluded President Motlanthe.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853

Department of Foreign Affairs
Private Bag x152
Pretoria
0001

11 February 2009