REMARKS BY PRESIDENT McALEESE AT THE CULTURAL DISPLAY, MUNICIPAL CENTRE, LICHINGA, MOZAMBIQUE
REMARKS BY PRESIDENT McALEESE AT THE CULTURAL DISPLAY, MUNICIPAL CENTRE, LICHINGA, MOZAMBIQUE SUNDAY, 18TH JUNE, 2006
Your Excellency, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen.
Boa tarde.
This immersion in Mozambique’s rich culture and musical tradition is a perfect way to end five marvellous days in this exquisite and exuberantly friendly country.
The reality of life today in Mozambique is out of kilter with the outdated world view of it. Without diminishing the seriousness of the problems faced here in terms of poverty reduction, the complex and vibrant tapestry of life is too easily overlooked from a distance and what I will leave Mozambique with is the memory of enormous potential, driving energy and strong determination to make a good future for all Mozambique’s children.
Everywhere I have been, I have been struck, by that surging potential and energy. Visually this country is stunning, magnificently endowed by nature. But the real wealth and hope of Mozambique, as with every country, is in its people. They have endured much, transcended much suffering and now their faith in the future is driving a forceful agenda for development, growth and widespread opportunity. I have seen the evidence of their spirit and their hard work in Maputo, Inhambane, Vilanculos, Nampula Province and now Lichinga and Niassa. The leadership of those I met, those bright, outgoing people, so confident people in their belief that the future will be better, is already turning the tide of Mozambique’s history.
Tonight as we enjoy the rich musical and dance tradition which, I have been told, will make the blood pulse, we see a showcase of Mozambiquan character, identity and culture. I am looking forward to hearing the performing group, Massoukos for I believe that as well as fine musicians they are also great champions in the fight against AIDS. I am delighted to see that Ireland is not the only country with multi-talented and politically influential pop stars!
This is a very joyful evening but given that we are leaving there is a real sadness too. This is our last hour on a magical trip, a real voyage of discovery through which we came to penetrate and shatter yesterday’s tired old stereotyped images of this remarkable country. We leave having seen and experienced a country on the move, heading into its problems with vigour and passion, driven by the determination of a vibrant, outgoing people who are utterly determined to overcome all obstacles and make Mozambique the best it can be, the best it has ever been. Ireland will accompany Mozambique on that journey as friend and supporter, partner and colleague. And I know that as we end this visit the bonds between our two countries are stronger than ever thanks to your great hospitality and wonderful welcome.
For our delegation, for my husband Martin and for myself, I thank you most sincerely and wish you every fulfilment and success in the years ahead.
Muito obrigada.