    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book I)]
    [April 27, 1995]
    [Page 607]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Observance of Freedom Day in South Africa
    April 27, 1995

        A full year has passed since South Africa embarked on a bold course
    to build nonracial democracy. Americans vividly remember watching
    inspiring scenes of the people of South Africa standing patiently in
    long lines to cast their first votes together. Their work for a
    democratic future still touches us all.
        Under President Mandela's wise leadership, South Africa has taken
    the road of reconciliation and consensus building. The United States
    remains determined to assist South Africa in these efforts, through our
    assistance program, the U.S.-South African Binational Commission
    launched in March, and a wide array of public and private sector
    initiatives to support the rebuilding of South Africa.
        South Africans are charting a course to meet the country's pressing
    economic and social needs. The Government of National Unity has promoted
    sound economic policies. The American private sector--business, private
    voluntary organizations, and academic institutions--has joined efforts
    to nurture and sustain democracy and economic growth in South Africa.
    Over 300 American companies have returned since apartheid ended.
        On this Freedom Day, April 27, I congratulate the people of South
    Africa on their progress and courage. They stand as a symbol of hope in
    a strife-torn world. The American people wish them every success.