/ 28 December 2005

Mbeki congratulates Bolivia’s new president

President Thabo Mbeki on Wednesday congratulated Bolivia’s new President Evo Morales, describing his election as evidence of the continuing changes in Latin America.

”Your election as the president of Bolivia indicates that the tide of change continues to sweep through Latin America bringing with it the hope of political and economic transformation and development for your country and indeed the region as a whole,” Mbeki said.

”As we stand at the brink of a new year, your election brings with it the optimism and glad tidings that 2006 will also usher in the desired fundamental socio-economic changes that your country expects.”

He said the South African government and its people stood ready to continue working to advance the developmental agenda of the south in general and of Bolivia in particular.

Morale will be inaugurated at Bolivia’s first Indian president on January 22. – Sapa