Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hungary János Martonyi visited the Embassy of the South African Republic in Budapest and signed the Nelson Mandela condolence book on 9 December 2013.

The Minister stated: “The passing away of Nelson Mandela, a statesman of outstanding values and importance, is a great loss for South Africa and for the whole world. Nelson Mandela will remain a symbol of freedom for all of us. His fight for democracy was an inspiration during the years of the communist dictatorship in my country. I express my sincere condolences on this sad occasion. We share the sorrow of his family and the people of South Africa. He was someone who cared for the well-being of others and was a driving force for change. The legacy he leaves cannot be understated. May he Rest in Peace by the Grace of God!”

Minister Martonyi emphasised Nelson Mandela’s positive role in history underlining the late president’s ability to achieving social reconciliation. He also highlighted that in the Central European region Hungary was the first state to establish diplomatic relations with South Africa. The parallel transitions of the two countries constitute a special bond between the two societies.

(Ministry of Foreign Affairs)