'Promote peace in Africa'
2009-05-09 17:30
Brussels - EU Commission chief Jose Manuel Barroso on Saturday congratulated Jacob Zuma on his election as South African president, while calling for joint efforts to advance peace and prosperity in Africa.
Barroso looked forward to an EU-South Africa summit in September as a chance to "identify concrete steps we can jointly take under your presidency to further deepen the strategic partnership between South Africa and the European Union".
"Building on shared values and working constructively together, South Africa and the European Union can play a key role in advancing peace and prosperity on the African continent, and promoting a more equitable world order," added Barroso, after Zuma took office on Saturday.
Zuma seized the legacy of reconciliation laid down by icon Nelson Mandela, vowing in his inaugural speech to defend democracy and unite the country after years of divisive politics.
Barroso, speaking on behalf of the European Commission, said he "would like to congratulate" Zuma on his inauguration "and extend my sincere wishes for the success of the mandate that has been entrusted to you".
