This event has great significance for the future of relations between our countries, and indeed for the development of our region. Winds of change have been sweeping over Southern Africa, bringing lasting peace and reconciliation.
Global trends enhance the urgency of economic matters.
The success of nations today depends upon economic performance in highly competitive world markets. In an era defined both by the integration of the world economy and te formation of regional economic grouping, the countries of Southern Africa cannot afford to lag behind in bidding for international investment and an equitable share of. Such is the interdependence of our economies that each Southern African county is compelled to consider its own trade and development needs within the context of the needs of the region as a whole. That is the objective reality which led to the foundation of the Southern African Development Community, and which sustains its growth into an instrument for the mutual benefit of all of us. Economically stable and growing markets in neighbouring countries are essential for the achievement of our domestic priorities.