27 march 2000
On the election of Mr. Vladimir Putin as President of the Russian Federation, President Thabo Mbeki has expressed his satisfaction with the Russian elections and has extended his heartfelt congratulations to President Putin.
President Mbeki also congratulated the people of Russia for the mature and responsible manner in which they expressed their democratic will. He further said that both South Africa and Russia have gone through a process of momentous change during the last decade of the previous century but that many great challenges still lie ahead for both countries and their respective regions. It is from this perspective that President Mbeki expressed every confidence that President Putin will successfully address the challenges that face Russia and its region. South Africa firmly believes that Russia will also continue to play a major role in international affairs.
President Mbeki stated that he looks forward to close cooperation with President Putin and that the excellent relations that exists between South Africa and the Russian Federation will continue to prosper.
Issued by: Department of Foreign Affairs
For more information contact Ronnie Mamoepa
Cell no. 082 990 4853
PRIVATE BAG X152
Pretoria
0001