Chairperson and hon members, it is heartening that developing countries have teamed together to develop themselves and, obviously, their neighbours, though indirectly. Russia and China have become the economic partners of the Republic, unlike in the past when associating with them was taboo. This is a great departure from supporting the superpowers of this world.
When visitors come to our shores it means, no doubt, that we are good hosts, and it is a big plus and a positive note for South Africa. Although there were many doubting Thomases when South Africa became a member, it has now become clear that South Africa is not just a member for the sake of it but that she adds value to the group.
We are pleased that South Africa will contribute the 34 000-kilometre-long Brics undersea cable, which is said to be the third longest undersea telecommunications cable in the world. This is not only good for South Africa's infrastructural development, but it also adds value to Africa as a continent, and especially because it is said that it will give the original four Brics partners a two-way avenue via South Africa to 21 African countries. We hope that the timeframes accorded to this will be kept.
South Africa's membership and its hosting of the summit confirm the already popular notion that South Africa is a gateway to the African continent. We hope that the summit will be a success and that all members will display commitment, and not just to being member states of this organisation. I thank you.