President sends birthday wishes to Nelson Mandela |18 July 2008

The text of the message reads:
 
“Your Excellency, on the most auspicious occasion of your 90th birthday the government and people of the Republic of Seychelles join me in expressing to you our warmest and most heartfelt congratulations.

“In wishing you a happy birthday, I am mindful of your courage in the face of adversity and your numerous achievements since the fall of apartheid in South Africa. 

“Out of the experience of a great human tragedy was born a society which is a beacon of democracy, justice and the rule of law. Your legacy and your courage have fortified the foundations of all free nations of the world. They are a source of inspiration to us all.

 “We have a common vision – one in which unity and justice prevail, social ills are eradicated and where our respective peoples prosper.

“The bonds of friendship shared by our two nations are strong; it is my fervent belief that, based on our exceptional history of friendship and mutual understanding, the future will bear witness to a further fortification and diversification of the existing outstanding bonds between our two countries.

“Please accept, Your Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration and best wishes for your good health and wellbeing, as well as for the continued progress and prosperity of the people of the Republic of South Africa.”