South Africa has been exposed to the recent turmoil in financial markets but has emerged, whilst a little bruised, both stronger and wiser. We, like other countries, have learnt important lessons and will put our experience to good use.
We know that if we want to benefit from globalisation in the form of sustained foreign capital inflows, we should constantly think of ourselves as citizens of the global village. The strength of the United States economy and trends in financial markets in New York, London, Tokyo and elsewhere will be significant factors in influencing whether or not South Africa realises its economic potential.