Queen hails South Africa's journey

The Queen and Thobeka Mabiba Zuma, the wife of South African President Jacob Zuma
12 April 2012

South Africa's successful journey of "liberation and democratic renewal" heralded by Nelson Mandela's release has been praised by the Queen during a banquet in honour of the nation's president.

The Queen described how, since the anti-apartheid figure head was freed 20 years ago, the country had managed to achieve the mammoth task of transforming itself.

Her words were addressed to South Africa's president Jacob Zuma and a host of leading figures from his homeland and the UK at Buckingham Palace.

In turn Mr Zuma highlighted how Britain helped in the efforts to "free" his country and later assisted in establishing a democratic government.

The Queen told her guests, who included Prime Minister Gordon Brown, senior members of the Royal Family and Cabinet ministers: "Twenty years ago last month Nelson Mandela was released from prison in South Africa heralding an extraordinary process of liberation and democratic renewal.

"The task was daunting in its scale and ambition but was achieved through a deliberate and courageous effort of reconciliation and peaceful resolution of differences."

Before arriving in the UK this week Mr Zuma, who has three wives, attacked Britain's colonial past in an interview after apparently responding to reports by the British media about his polygamous lifestyle.

But his comments at the banquet praised the close bonds between the British people and his homeland.

The president who was joined by his third and newest wife said: "We cannot forget the extraordinary role they played at the forefront of a global movement for a free South Africa, as the global anti-apartheid movement has its roots in this country. We also appreciate the assistance that the United Kingdom provided during our transition and in the establishment of the new democratic government."

Mr Brown is due to hold talks with the president with Zimbabwe expected to be high on the agenda.

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