Merkel Pays Tribute To Mandela's Example, Inspiration

Berlin, Dec 7, IRNA -- German Chancellor Angela Merkel here Friday paid tribute to Nelson Mandela, calling the late statesman an example for humanity whose legacy would inspire people around the world for many more years to come. Even many years in prison could not break Nelson Mandela or make him bitter - his message of reconciliation ultimately led to a new, better South Africa, Merkel said. Nelson Mandela's luminous example and his political legacy of non-violence and rejection of all forms of racism will remain an inspiration for people around the world for a long time, she added. Mandela died peacefully and surrounded by his family at his Johannesburg home on Thursday evening, aged 95, according to South African President Jacob Zuma./end