Makaleler

REMARKS BY AMBASSADOR MALEFANE AT THE COOPERATION AGREEMENT SIGNING CEREMONY DURING THE VISIT OF THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF EKURHULENI TO THE MAYOR OF THE CITY OF BURSA

Let me start by acknowledging the presence of their worship, Mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni and the Mayor of the City of Bursa. In so doing I register my excitement in witnessing this momentous and historic occassion in the bilateral relationship between the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Turkey. Mr Mayor it will be wrong of me not to congratulate you and the City of Bursa in conducting a peaceful and decisive referendum that sought to give significant changes to how Turkey will be governed going forward. It is also correct for me to reemphasise South Africa support and commitment to the democratically elected government of Turkey and I once more on behalf of South Africa, condemn the unlawful events of July 15 last year.

The ceremony here today signals a genuine intent by both the City of Ekurhuleni and the City of Bursa to advance the development of the two cities. The development i am refering to will contribute to the greater development and improvement of the lives of both the people of South Africa and the people of Turkey. I hold a firm view that this is an exemplary partnership towards sustainable development and mutual beneficiation. I also consider this event of signing the letter of intent as a responsible beginning to a partnership between two progressive cities.

I am also excitedly waiting for the day on which the actual cooperation agreement between the two cities will be signed which, I believe will be before the end of the current year. Can I kindly introduce my leader and Mayor of Ekurhuleni to say a few words. Of course as per protocol my other Leader, the Mayor of the City of Bursa will later respond.

I thank you.