Therefore, as a way forward, the ANC in Polokwane has resolved that we must strengthen the efforts of building a developmental state whose basic tenets are national planning, and the state's ability to intervene in all facets of our lives on behalf of the poor and the vulnerable people in our society.
In this regard, the Department of Minerals and Energy must accelerate the efforts of establishing a vibrant state-owned mining company. This will assist this developmental state to amass the necessary resources that will enable us to address the massive imbalances of the past, and to play a leading role in the industry by setting acceptable world-class standards and best practises.
This phenomenon, I must say, is not unique to South Africa. We draw positive lessons in the development of natural resources for the common good of all countries such as Cuba, under the able stewardship of Companyero Fidel Castro in the eradication of illiteracy and skills development. Comrade Chaves from Venezuela has shown the world how best the natural resources can be put to good use for the good of everybody. The state will also play a pivotal role in terms of ownership and development in some of our neighbouring countries like Botswana and Namibia. I thank you.