President-designate
Monrovia â South African President Thabo Mbeki today, Monday 16 January
2006, on behalf of the government and people of South Africa congratulated
President-designate Dr Michelle Bachelet on her election as the first female
Head of State of Chile.
In a message of support President Mbeki, said, "Please accept the warmest
congratulations of the government and people of South Africa following your
historic election as the first female President of Chile."
"Your election will without doubt strengthen Chileâs progressive example for
the global community, especially on issues of democracy, gender and womenâs
rights, poverty alleviation and support for a rules-based and more equitable
multilateral system.
"The principled stance Chile has taken thus far in the ongoing attempts to
restructure global governance in order to respond more effectively to the
challenges of the 21st Century, is also of prime importance to Africa and
indeed the world at large, and we look forward to continuing our co-operation
with you and with your Administration in that sphere.
"The South African government places a high value on the warm relations,
which exist at so many levels between South Africa and Chile, and we look
forward to further strengthening ties with your country under your Presidency,"
concluded President Mbeki.
Enquiries: Ronnie Mamoepa
Cell: 082 990 4853
Issued by Department of Foreign Affairs
16 January 2006
