Clinton meets "truly free" nation

Clinton will also visit the Robben Island with Mandela to see the cell where Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison for his role as a leader of the anti-apartheid movement. Speaking of Mandela, Clinton said that "for millions upon millions of Americans, South Africa’s story is embodied by your heroic sacrifice and your breathtaking walk out of the darkness and into the glorious light".

The American leader clutched Mandela’s hand tightly as he helped the 79-year-old President down the staircase to the Assembly floor. Amid loud cheers, the two leaders slowly walked up the aisle, shakinghands with lawmakers.

"Four years ago such a visit would not have been possible because apartheid had turned our beloved South Africa into a pariah of the world," said Popo Molefe, premier of northwest province, as he introduced Clinton to a joint session of Parliament.

South Africa’s victory over apartheid inspires hope that "one day humanity all over the world can at last be released from the bonds of hatred and bigotry," Clinton said, promising a partnership of "mutual respect and mutual reward".

"We rejoice at what you have already accomplished," Clinton said. "We seek to be your partners and your true friends in the work that lies ahead overcoming the lingering legacy of apartheid, seizing the promise of your rich land and your gifted people."

First Lady Hillary Rodham Clinton watched from a gallery above, seated next to Mandela’s companion, Graca Machel. Winnie Mandela, the President’s ex-wife, took her seat as a member of parliament. Clinton later joined his wife in her return to the VictoriaMxenge housing project that she visited a year ago.

Despite its gains, South Africa is a nation troubled by crime, poverty, housing shortages and disappointing economic growth. The United States is unhappy about Mandela’s friendship with Fidel Castro of Cuba and Moammar Gadhafi of Libya, a loyalty based on the support they gave in the anti-apartheid struggle.

"Sometimes our interests and our views diverge," Clinton said, "but that is true even in family partnerships."

At a State dinner, Mandela will present Clinton with South Africa’s highest honour, the Order of Good Hope. Mandela has given the same tribute to Gadhafi.

Clinton met with Thabo Mbeki, South Africa’s deputy President and Mandela’s heir apparent, and addressed criticism that the United States was cutting back on aid to Africa. Clinton has asked Congress to increase aid to Africa– currently $700 million by $30 million.

At earlier stops on this six-country trip, Clinton has expressed remorse about America’s neglect of Africa, favoritismof some authoritarian regimes during the Cold War and participation in the slave trade long ago.

Asked why the President had not addressed the oft-criticised US policy of "constructive engagement" toward South Africa in the 1980s, spokesman Mike McCurry said Clinton "elected not to dwell on US government policies of the past".

ASSOCIATED PRESS