Media Statement on the Resignation of President Mubarak

The South African Government welcomes the decision by President Hosni Mubarak to resign as President of Egypt. The latest events in Egypt represent a victory of the will of the people and marks the dawn of a new era of democracy in Egypt. This development creates conditions for a transitional process which will pave the way for a democratic dispensation in Egypt.

We call upon the Egyptian political formations to put in place a transitional authority that would restore stability and prepare for the holding of democratic elections at the earliest possible time. South Africa remains ready to support the transitional government in Egypt as it prepares to steer the country towards a new course of freedom and democracy.

We urge the new Egyptian Government to maintain a peaceful coexistence with its neighbours and to continue playing a positive and constructive role in the Middle East, with a view to realizing the establishment of an independent Palestinian State coexisting side by side with the State of Israel.

For further information please contact Mr. Clayson Monyela, spokesperson for DIRCO, on 082 884 5974

Issued by the Department of International Relations and Cooperation
OR Tambo Building
460 Soutpansberg Road
Pretoria

11 February 2011