Mandela's warm welcome
31 May 2007
Nelson Mandela has welcomed Tony Blair to the South African capital Johannesburg as the Prime Minister continues his tour of Africa.
Mr Blair and his wife Cherie were met at Mr Mandela's Johannesburg offices by the former South African President and his wife Graca Machel. Mr Mandela said:
"He has been a very good friend to Africa and I know his commitment will continue in his retirement. We wish him the very best for his future.
Mr Mandela also formally welcomed Tony Blair to the club of retiring and retired Presidents and Prime Ministers:
"Tony, I look forward to welcoming a young man like you to the club of retiring Presidents and Prime Ministers.
"I warn you however that some of us only become active after stepping down from office!"
"We look forward to the contribution you will continue to make."
The former President also had warm words for Chancellor Gordon Brown, calling him a "dear friend".
"I look forward to Gordon's premiership of Britain, demonstrating the leadership and integrity that I know of him."
Mr Blair said:
"As ever it's an honour and a privilege to stand next to President Mandela and thank him for everything he has done in his life, showing it is possible for things to change.
"The fact that South Africa is so strong today is in no small measure due to the leadership and courage of Nelson Mandela."
The Prime Minister is in South Africa on the final leg of a trip to Africa, which has taken him to Libya and Sierra Leone. He earlier delivered a keynote speech on the future of Africa.
Image copyright: Reuters
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