Issued by the Presidency
6 May 2002
President Thabo Mbeki yesterday extended heartfelt congratulations to President Jacques Chirac on his resounding victory in the second round of the French Presidential Elections announced on Sunday, (May 5, 2002).
In a letter sent to Paris President Mbeki said, "the clear decision of the French people confirms the continued commitment of the French Republic to the fundamental principles of liberty, equality and fraternity. These principles inspired our own struggle for freedom from apartheid tyranny".
He added by saying results of the French Presidential elections "serve to inspire our confidence in France as a reliable partner in our efforts to transform ours into a prosperous, non-racial and democratic country, enriched by its multi-racial, multi-ethnic and multi-cultural character".
President Mbeki further said he looks forward to continued co-operation between South Africa and France as this would serve to strengthen the friendly all-round bilateral relations of the two countries and to ensure the success of NEPAD, for the development of the African continent.
For further information contact Bheki Khumalo on 083 256 9133.