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Among the many noble principles enshrined in 1776, in America's
Declaration of Independence, was the inalienable right to the pursuit
of happiness. Knowing how long and hard you fought for this right, I
shall respect it by not imposing a long speech on our jovial
celebration.

The only remarks I must make are to congratulate our hosts, His
Excellency Ambassador Gips and Mrs Gips, and Consul General Ruggles,
and through them to congratulate the nation of the United States of
America on this, the 236th celebration of Independence Day.

I appreciated receiving invitations to several receptions around the
4th of July, being held in various places. Our American friends have
given us every opportunity to celebrate with them. This shows not only
the magnanimity of spirit which I have come to associate with
Americans, but the great importance attached to the celebration of
this Day.

I have been privileged to call myself a friend of the American
Government and the American people for several decades. My visits to
the White House have come at the invitation of three sitting
Presidents; President Carter, President Reagan and President Bush
Senior. I have also been honoured with several awards from
organisations in the United States.

But my own appreciation for celebrating Independence Day was
entrenched through my close association with an American citizen, Dr
Mario Oriani-Ambrosini, who served as my Advisor during South Africa's
constitutional negotiations and my ten year tenure as Minister of Home
Affairs after 1994. Even having lived in South Africa for some twenty
years, Dr Ambrosini maintains such a strong American patriotism that I
have been drawn into sharing both the celebrations and sorrows of the
United States.

My long friendship with America is indeed reciprocal, for, through its
representatives, your country has also shared my celebrations and
sorrows.

I must thank Consul General Taylor Ruggles in person for conveying his
country's condolences on the very recent passing of my son, Prince
Phumaphesheya.

This afternoon, it is a delight to be among friends. As we celebrate
Independence Day again, I wish nothing less for the American nation
than prosperity, unity and peace.