Deputy President Paul Mashatile and French President Emmanuel Macron have this evening led a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at Freedom Park Heritage Site and Museum to honour French citizens, who supported South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.
President Macron arrived at the heritage precinct in Pretoria in the late afternoon, where he was officially received by Deputy President Mashatile ahead of the commemorative event.
The visit forms part of the French leader’s programme before joining other Heads of State and Government for the G20 Leaders’ Summit, taking place from 22 to 23 November under the theme: 'Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability'.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mashatile said Freedom Park stood as “sacred ground”, dedicated to all who sacrificed their lives for justice, freedom and human dignity.
He said the tributes paid to French anti-apartheid activists were a powerful reminder that South Africa’s liberation struggle had been a global effort.
“As an anti-apartheid activist myself, I am deeply moved by this ceremony. This place reminds us of the price paid for our freedom and the collective sacrifices that made our democracy possible,” Mashatile said.
He emphasised that the struggle was not waged by South Africans alone but was strengthened by courageous men and women across the world, including French activists, journalists, scholars and ordinary citizens who refused to remain silent.
“Alongside President Macron, we remember and pay tribute to the French citizens who stood firmly against apartheid. Many gave their voices, their talents and, in some cases, their lives so that South Africans could one day be free,” he said.
Mashatile said their solidarity travelled across oceans, reinforcing the resolve of those resisting oppression at home and forming part of the “long moral arc that bent toward justice” in South Africa.
He stressed that the ceremony highlighted the deep historic bonds between South Africa and France, bonds rooted not only in diplomacy, but in shared values, shared sacrifice and a shared commitment to human rights.
The Deputy President said the moment served as a reminder of the responsibility carried by both nations to safeguard the freedoms that were hard-won; to promote social justice at home and globally; and to ensure that liberation stories continue to inspire future generations.
“Your Excellency, thank you for this solemn act of remembrance. May the spirits of those we honour today continue to guide our nations toward a future marked by friendship, cooperation and hope,” he told Macron. – SAnews.gov.za
