President. – It is my great pleasure to inform you that a delegation from the South African Parliament is now seated in the gallery for official visitors.

(Applause)

The South African delegation is headed by Mr Obed Bapela, President of the House. The delegation itself is composed of eight members, representing the country’s diverse political tendencies. This is the first time since 1998 that we have had the pleasure of welcoming our South African counterparts here, in Europe.

South Africa and the European Union share the belief that international problems must be resolved by means of multilateral solutions. They also share common social and political values. Both are actively engaged in supporting peace and stability and in combating poverty throughout the whole continent of Africa. We hope at present to reinforce further the parliamentary dimension of our cooperation.

I have been informed that your meetings at the European Parliament have been crowned with success. I hope that you pursue your mission successfully, and I also wish you a safe journey home.