APA-Pretoria (South Africa) South Africa’s painful past and subsequent transition to democracy are proof that peace can be achieved among nations at a time of great conflict, President Cyril Ramaphosa has said in Pretoria.
The president said this when he welcomed Dutch King Willem-Alexander who is on a State Visit to the country on Thursday.
“As a country that chose the path of reconciliation over conflict, and peace over war, we believe it is indeed possible for adversaries, even those that share bitter histories, to come together for the sake of peace,” Ramaphosa said.
He reflected on the history between the two countries which began with the arrival of Dutch settlers in the Cape in 1652.
“In this regard, Your Majesty, I wish to acknowledge the apology that you have made for your country’s role in the slave trade, including in South Africa,” Ramaphosa said.
He described the apology as “an important step towards promoting reconciliation, restoration and healing old wounds.”
The president said the relationship between the two countries was a testament to this, as the Netherlands was a former colonial power but was now supporting development and economic growth across the developing world — including in former Dutch colonies like South Africa.
Ramaphosa praised the relationship between South Africa and the Netherlands – highlighting in particular the latter’s place as a major investor into the country.
The South African leader said this relationship was one from which Pretoria has derived “great benefits.”
“Ours is a strategic partnership and we can be proud of it. It has evolved, matured and I see it growing exponentially in the next coming years,” he said.
NM/jn/APA