Miss World Contestants Meet President Jacob Zuma

President Jacob Zuma met the 112 Miss World contestants today at the Presidential Guest House in Pretoria to wish them well in their preparations for the Miss World Final at Gallagher Estate, Johannesburg on 12 December 2009.

Addressing the contestants, ahead of meeting each one of them individually, President Zuma remarked that despite the gloomy weather he extended a warm welcome and pointed out the valuable role they have to play: “The Miss World Contest brings nations of the world together and is an important platform for promoting unity and togetherness amongst all of us.

There are many challenges facing the world such as poverty, disease and conflicts. Our Miss World contestants and national queens can play an important role in raising awareness about these ills and promote action for peace, love, togetherness and prosperity.

This contest also promotes economic activity, especially tourism, amongst world nations and encourages people to people contact and cooperation.”

For the contestants the Presidential meeting was the highlight of their South African trip to date and a once in a lifetime opportunity. Tomorrow the Miss World Group will visit Soweto before flying off to Kwa Zulu Natal for three days to participate in the Miss Beach Beauty final.