President Cyril Ramaphosa has, on behalf of the government and people of South Africa, extended condolences to the Bédié family, the government and the people of the Republic of Côte d’Ivoire, following the passing of the former Ivorian President, Henri Konan Bédié.
Mr Bédié served as the Ivorian President from 1993 until 1999.
A visit by former President Bédié to South Africa in September 1998 was the first by an Ivorian Head of State. Through the visit, deeper relations between the two countries were forged.
“We send our deepest condolences to the family of former President Bédié and to the people of Côte d’Ivoire in general. We mourn with them and share in their loss,” President Ramaphosa said.
The Presidency said the passing of former President Bédié comes at a time when the African continent is faced with great challenges which require continental cooperation and unity to advance the goals of the African Union for peace, security, and development.
“It is therefore imperative that Cote d'Ivoire and South Africa work together to bring peace and stability to the continent,” the Presidency said. – SAnews.gov.za
