Embassy, Topnews, Press
02. May 2012
Berlin. The Embassy of the Republic of South Africa in Berlin celebrates South Africa`s National Day on 27 April 2012. The day is celebrated as Freedom Day and in 2012 South Africa celebrates 18 years of freedom and democracy under the theme “Working Together to Build Unity and Prosperity for All”.
This year’s celebration is a truly exceptional one, as it takes place in the year of the Centenary of the ruling party, the African National Congress. It therefore not only celebrates the glorious history of a selfless struggle by millions of ordinary South Africans who defeated the apartheid regime, but most importantly it summons new courage and energy to face the future with confidence.
Ambassador Stofile in his remarks in commemoration of Freedom Day reaffirmed the strong and strategic relations between South Africa and Germany. He also acknowledged the support by Germany in the struggle for the freedom of South Africa and recognized the many heroes and heroines who brought South Africa where it is today.
The solidarity between South Africa and Germany has grown into an important strategic partnership of equals. This strategic partnership will be strengthened when the 7th Session of the South Africa – German Binational Commission with its joint committees in key areas of economy, trade and investment, science and technology, development cooperation, defence, culture, environment and social and labour affairs will convene on 7 and 8 May 2012 in Berlin. Deputy President Kgalema Motlanthe will be leading the South African delegation and will be accompanied by Cabinet Ministers, senior officials and a business delegation.
Germany remains a key partner for South Africa and only 11 days ago the South Africa-German Year of Science was launched in Cape Town by Minister Pandor and Minister Schavan. The Year of Science is a yearlong research co-operation initiative between the two countries that aims to foster local skills development and providing a platform for further joint ventures in science.
South Africa and Germany continue to cooperate as non-permanent members of the Security Council of the United Nations to address issues to advance the African Agenda and post conflict programmes to restore peace and development.
After the FIFA World Cup 2010 the Embassy of the Republic of South Africa in Berlin has taken the colour green from the soccer fields towards the future. The successful hosting of the UN Climate Conference COP17/CMP7 in Durban in November 2011 was the “kick-off”. The Embassy is ready to lead through our actions and deeds to ensure that we are going green as well and has embarked on several initiatives to create a greener work environment.