By : Nedal Zubeidi
Jordan Daily – South Africa celebrated the 30th anniversary of its democratic dispensation, marking three decades of freedom, partnership, and growth, according to a speech by South Africa’s Ambassador to Jordan, Tselane Mokuena at a reception organized by the Embassy on Tuesday.
The event also marked the 30th year of diplomatic relations between South Africa and Jordan. The ambassador reflected on the momentous day of April 27, 1994, when millions of South Africans cast their ballots in a democratic election for the first time, ending over 350 years of apartheid.
The ambassador highlighted the achievements of the past three decades and paid tribute to the unsung heroes who fought for a democratic, equal, representative, and discrimination-free nation. She emphasized the role of South Africa’s 28-year-old Constitution in addressing poverty, inequality, and unemployment.
Ambassador Mokuena praised the Constitution for promoting inclusivity, equality, non-racialism, non-sexism, national unity, social cohesion, justice, and diversity, and for protecting the rights of all citizens.
She expressed hope that through partnerships and collaboration with Jordan, they could realize a better Africa and a better world. She also acknowledged the exponential growth of South Africa’s international relations since the beginning of the democratic era in 1994.
From hosting 68 diplomatic missions in 1994 due to an international boycott of apartheid South Africa, the country now hosts 308 diplomatic missions, making it one of the largest diplomatic corps in the world.
The ambassador paid tribute to His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan for his efforts to alleviate the suffering of Palestinians through international peace efforts and humanitarian aid.
In her address, Ambassador Mokuena stated that the country’s appeal to the International Court of Justice is a reflection of its commitment to human rights. She welcomed the court’s ruling that Israel must do everything in its power to prevent acts of genocide against Palestinians.
Ambassador Mokuena condemned the loss of civilian lives in the conflict and urged all parties involved to commit to a peace process. The ultimate goal is to achieve a permanent ceasefire and a two-state solution. She emphasized that these actions are in line with South Africa’s commitment to human rights and international solidarity.
She concluded by reiterating Nelson Mandela’s commitment to the Palestinian Cause and stated that the principle of international solidarity and commitment to human rights is a fundamental pillar of South Africa’s foreign policy.
