The President of the Republic addressed a congratulatory message to the President of the Republic of South Africa, Jacob Zuma.

Following is the text of the message:

“At the moment when Your Excellency is preparing to assume the High Office of President of the Republic of South Africa I wish to address you, on behalf of the People of Portugal and in my own personal name, my heartiest congratulations and wishes for success in accomplishing the duties you have been called upon to fulfil by the People of South Africa.

I am certain that, during Your Excellency’s mandate, the historical bonds of friendship and cooperation that link our two countries will find new opportunities to be developed and deepened. Your Excellency may count upon my personal endeavour for this to be so, in the conviction that a closer partnership between Portugal and South Africa corresponds to the best interests of both our Peoples and Countries.

Please allow me to emphasize as well, the significant role played by the Portuguese and Luso-Descendant community residing in South Africa, which is an important link in the strengthening of the relations between our two countries.

Renewing my congratulations, I beg you to accept, Mister President, my sincere wishes for Your Excellency’s personal happiness and for the prosperity and progress of our friends the People of South Africa.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva”