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STATEMENT BY MARTHINUS VAN SCHALKWYK, MINISTER OF ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS & TOURISM, CONGRATULATING VALLI MOOSA: NEWLY ELECTED PRESIDENT OF THE IUCN
24 November 2004
South Africa's achievements and accolades on the world stage continue to underscore the wealth of talent, knowledge and ability of our people.
The announcement today of the election of former Minister Valli Moosa as the new president of the World Conservation Union (IUCN) at the third IUCN Congress in Bangkok is a proud moment for South Africa and Africa as a whole.
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Valli on this outstanding success. The fact that he was elected by an overwhelming majority of 432 votes to 199 is a resounding endorsement of the confidence that the global conservation community has in his experience, insight and abilities.
Having a South African at the helm of one of the most prestigious and influential conservation organisations in the world is another indication of the growing international esteem for South Africa's leading role in environmental protection and sustainable development.
We wish Valli every success in his new challenges and know that he will continue to bring to international conservation the same innovation and insight that he brought to South Africa.
Enquiries: Riaan Aucamp
Cell: 083 778 9923
Issued by: Ministry of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
24 November 2004