President Zuma meets Miss World contestants at the Presidential Guest house
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President Zuma meets Miss World contestants at the Presidential Guest house
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The dim weather did little to dampen the spirits among the Miss World contestants as they met South African President Jacob Zuma at the Presidential Guesthouse in Pretoria.
President Zuma said he was honoured to be hosting the world’s beauties.
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ON VIDEO: Miss World contestants were very excited to meet President Zuma
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ON CAMERA: 2nd place winner Miss Korea dances on point
ON CAMERA: 3rd place winner Miss Norway sings at Miss World talent show
ON CAMERA: 4th place winner Miss Australia performs a contemporary ballet pieces
ON CAMERA: Miss World 2009 contestants perform dances of the world
At their meeting on Friday, a jovial Zuma told the contestants that despite the gloomy weather, South Africa is an exceptionally beautiful country - A country that became God’s resting place after creating the world.
"The Miss World Contest brings nations of the world together and is an important platform for promoting unity and togetherness amongst all of us," Zuma said, and added that the Miss World contestants and national queens can play an important role in raising awareness about ills such as poverty and conflict as well as to promote action for peace, love, togetherness and prosperity.
The contestants said the Presidential meeting was the highlight of their South African trip to date and a once in a lifetime opportunity.
Mariatu Kargbo, from Freetown, Sierra Leone, said being in South Africa was something that will always stay with her for the rest of her life.
She said: "South Africa is a great and lovely country. The people here are lovely. They are so friendly and that makes it great. It’s the best time in my life and I will never forget it."
She added that she wants to show the world that a Miss World is capable of bringing peace and friendship all over the world.
Miss Peru, Claudia Maria Carrasco Sarrio, added: "I’m going to give all my heart because I’m happy to be here, this is special to me. I’m here in the Presidential Guesthouse and I’m very thankful to God, South Africa and my country."
Zuma described the pageant as unlike other contests because rather than create tension and animosity between people, the Miss World contests brings happiness.
"You are certainly wonderful people. You have come to a wonderful country," Zuma added, and wished the contestants well for the finals that will be taking place at the Gallagher Estate in Johannesburg on 12 December.
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