President Zardari felicitates South African leadership on National Day

Islamabad (Web Desk): President Asif Ali Zardari on Monday extended his greetings to South African President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa and the people of South Africa on their National Day, which is celebrated annually on April 27.

In a message issued on behalf of the government and people of Pakistan, the president—who is currently undertaking a five-day official visit to China—said that Pakistan places high value on its friendly relations with South Africa.

He noted that the relationship is founded on common principles, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to peace, development, and cooperation in multilateral forums.

President Zardari further recalled Pakistan’s principled position during the apartheid era, pointing out that as early as 1948, Pakistan had declined to recognise the apartheid regime, in a stance similar to its position on Zionist Israel.

He added that many still remember that Pakistani passports once carried a note stating they were not valid for travel to apartheid South Africa and Israel, a restriction that remained in effect until the end of apartheid in 1994.

President Zardari expressed confidence that the bilateral relations between Pakistan and South Africa would continue to expand in the coming years, ultimately contributing to greater prosperity and improved well-being for the people of both countries.