President Asif Ali Zardari, in a message marking South Africa’s National Day, today highlighted Pakistan’s historic refusal to recognise the apartheid regime, alongside Zionist Israel, as early as 1948, underscoring a long-standing principled stance in international relations.
The Pakistani head of state conveyed his greetings to President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa and the citizens of South Africa on behalf of the Government and people of Pakistan.
In his message, Mr. Zardari affirmed the significant value Pakistan places on its warm bilateral relations with South Africa. These ties, he noted, are founded on shared values, mutual trust, and a collective dedication to peace, development, and multilateral cooperation.
Elaborating on Pakistan”s firm historical position, the President reminded that many of the older generation still recall the explicit stamp on Pakistani passports. This marking explicitly stated “not valid for (apartheid) South Africa and Israel,” a practice that continued until the demise of apartheid in 1994.
Looking ahead, President Zardari expressed confidence that the existing bond between the two nations is set to strengthen further. He anticipated that this continued growth would lead to enhanced prosperity and improved well-being for the populace of both countries in the coming years.