Zuma thanks UK for struggle role

2010-03-04 11:27

London - President Jacob Zuma met for breakfast talks with British Prime Minister Gordon Brown in London Thursday expected to focus on business ties and sanctions against Zimbabwe.

The two men already met Wednesday at the official welcoming ceremony for Zuma and one of his three current wives, Tobeka Madiba.

Zuma, who is accompanied by a 216-strong business delegation, told a banquet at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday that South Africa still had "a long way to go" to achieve prosperity for all.

The controversial president, who had in an earlier interview lashed out at Britain's alleged "superior" attitude to Africans, went out of his way to praise Britain's help in the building of the "new South Africa".

"We cannot forget the extraordinary role they (the British) 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," he said.

"We also appreciate the assistance that the United Kingdom provided during our transition and in the establishment of the new democratic government."

Queen hails SA's transformation

Queen Elizabeth II, for her part, hailed South Africa's successful journey of "liberation and democratic renewal." The country had performed the "mammoth task" of transforming itself since the release from prison 20 years ago of Nelson Mandela.

"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," said the monarch.

The queen pointed out that she was wearing diamonds she was given by the South African government during a visit to the country on her 21st birthday in 1947.

"They are my best diamonds," she said.

- SAPA