Allow me also to take this opportunity to express my thanks and appreciation to the Secretary-General of the United Nations for preparing and submitting to us the report on the developments in South Africa since the beginning of this year in document A/44/960. I pay a special tribute to the Special Committee against Apartheid, under the dynamic leadership of Ambassador Ibrahim Gambari, for its relentless and continuing efforts in the struggle for the elimination of apartheid. I want to assure them that they can count on my delegation's continuing support in this noble task. Since last December the situation in southern Africa has, for the first time in many decades, begun to evolve in a positive direction that gives hope and expectation to the long-suffering people of the region. I am referring, in the first instance, to the successful completion of the United Nations process leading to the independence of Namibia on 21 March 1990. As President until yesterday of RM/11 A/44/PV.97 37 (Mr. Mvananshiku. Zambia) the United Nations Council for Namibia and as Chairman of the group of front-line States, Zambia has warmly welcomed Namibia's independence, emphasizing as it does the fact that interracial harmony and peace are only possible in a truly democratic environment. It is an example that South Africa should emulate. In the second place I am referring to the momentum that has emerged in South Africa towards the holding of negotiations leading to the abolition of apartheid and the transformation of South Africa into a united, democratic and non-racial State. That new momentxim towards change has not come about on its own. It has been brought about by the pressures, both internal and external and including sanctions, that have been brought to bear on South Africa. 
**Analysis**
The text primarily focuses on the political situation in South Africa and southern Africa, discussing the progress towards the abolition of apartheid, the independence of Namibia, and the momentum towards change in South Africa. The text also touches on the international community's role in promoting these changes through sanctions and diplomatic efforts.

**Category**
International relations, Humanitarian aid and relief