[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 31, Number 17 (Monday, May 1, 1995)]
[Page 726]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
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.