What was George h. w. bush response to nelson Mandela release from prison?

George H.W. Bush welcomed Nelson Mandela's release from prison in February 1990 as a significant step towards ending apartheid in South Africa. He praised Mandela for his leadership and emphasized the importance of a peaceful transition to democracy in South Africa. Bush's administration supported diplomatic efforts to promote negotiations between the apartheid government and anti-apartheid leaders, reflecting a commitment to human rights and stability in the region.