(Seychelles News Agency) - Seychelles Vice President Danny Faure has attended the presidential inauguration ceremony of South African President Jacob Zuma this morning in Pretoria.

According to a press statement from the Office of the President this evening, the Vice President represented Seychelles President James Michel at the ceremony where he conveyed ‘the warm wishes of the Seychellois people towards President Zuma and the people of the Republic of South Africa.’

“Seychelles and South Africa share a historical partnership, which is also forward looking. As you take South Africa forward, Mr. President, Seychelles stands ready to continue to foster relations based on people-centred development, while continuing the long walk towards equity and socio-economic transformation,” said Faure in the statement.

Faure praised the ANC on their electoral victory as well as the leadership in fighting for South Africa’s freedom and ‘in bringing about a better life for their people.’

“With its 102 year history, moving from a liberation movement to a governing party, the ANC continues to provide an example of governance, and of evolution to meet the needs of the South African people. The 20th anniversary of freedom in South Africa which coincides with this beginning of a new term by President Zuma, allows us to reflect on the achievements and share ideas on how to overcome those challenges that remain. As Seychelles’ ruling party, Parti Lepep, prepares to celebrate its own 50th anniversary, we reflect on these evolutions that must continue to strengthen our nations, and we are proud to have mutually supported each other from this history of liberation to our shared challenges in the region and on the African continent.”

Vice President Danny Faure (first on second row from the left) at the inaugural ceremony (Seychelles Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Photo license: Attribution

According to AFP, the 72-year old South African President vowed to spearhead a "radical social economic transformation" during his inaugural speech.

"Today marks the beginning of the second phase of our transition from apartheid to a national democratic society," he said, promising more black empowerment and a bigger economic role for the state.

The ceremony took place in the amphitheatre of Pretoria's Union Buildings, the seat of the government.

President Zuma making his inaugural address (Seychelles Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Photo license: Attribution