Palestine–South Africa relations Palestine–South Africa relations South Africa-Palestine relations refer to the interstate relations between the Republic of South Africa and the State of Palestine. The African National Congress had close relations with Palestine Liberation Organization. Nelson Mandela had close relations with Yasser Arafat. After the first multiracial elections in 1994, South Africa established diplomatic relations with the State of Palestine on February 15, 1995. Former South African President Nelson Mandela had visited both Israel and Palestine and called for peace between both sides. Nevertheless, Some prominent South African figures, such as Desmond Tutu and Ronnie Kasrils have criticized Israel's treatment of the
State President of South Africa was proclaimed on 31 May 1961. Charles Robberts Swart, the last Governor-General, was sworn in as the first State President. The title 'State President' was originally used for the head of state of the Boer Republics, and like them, the holder of the office wore a sash with the Republic's coat of arms. He was elected to a seven-year term by the Parliament of South Africa, and was not eligible for re-election. The National Party decided against having an executive presidency, instead adopting a minimalist approach as a conciliatory gesture to English-speaking whites who were opposed to a republic. As