Thabo Mbeki addresses citizens' worries

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CAPE TOWN, South Africa, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- South African President Thabo Mbeki acknowledged the country's worries Friday about its economy, energy crisis and criminal justice system.

During Mbeki's State of the Nation address to a joint Parliament sitting, he also reportedly discussed concerns about the potential economic impact a U.S. recession could have on South Africa, BuaNews (Tshwane) reported Friday.

"Like all the honorable members, I am aware of the fact that many in our society are troubled by a deep sense of unease about where our country will be tomorrow," Mbeki said.

In his speech, the president reportedly called on his countrymen to work together to defeat the challenges facing the nation.

"This is not a time for finger pointing but for working together in finding solutions," he said.