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Dated 18 July 1998
Dear Nelson
Many happy returns and congratulations on reaching 80. It was a pleasure to see you in Cardiff recently. I was delighted to have the opportunity to talk to you again.
In your last year in office, I hope you will look back and be proud of what you have achieved. South Africa is a country unrecognisable from ten years ago. Few would have dared then to predict the speed of transformation from apartheid to government based on democratic principles.
There is still a way to go. The inequalities caused by aparthied were never going to be redressed overnight. But, under your leadership, more South Africans have access to homes, water and electricity than ever before and even more will have these basic provisions before your 81st birthday.
The Rainbow Nation continues to evolve. The steps that are being taken towards an equitable and open society are a direct reflection of your personal convition that South Africa should never again experience oppression of one by another. I cannot but fell humbled by your energy and commitment to see the process through. Many men would have baulked at the challenges facing South Africa in 1994. Many would still do so. I am sure that, even in retirement, you will continue to play an invaluable role inthe transformation process.
South Africa and Britain have such a depth and breadth of links. From technical cooperation to ministerial links, from trade campaigns to strategic political discussions, from sports tours to cultural exchanges, South Africa and Britain have never been closer partners.
We have much at stake in each other's futures. We must forge new links, encouraging successive generations to match the achivements of their parents. And just as you have inspired my generation, so may you continue to act as role model for our children.
With very best wishes
Yours ever
Tony
