Mandela, de Klerk given South African honour

The two men who shared the Nobel Peace Prize for 1993 were given new honours by their country on Tuesday.

F. W. de Klerk and Nelson Mandela received South Africa's National Orders, the country's highest civilian award.

Both men said the honour belongs to the nation and its people, rather than to them as individuals.

"I accept it in the spirit in which it was given, the spirit of recognition not just for my role, but recognition for the millions who supported me in the initiatives which I took," said de Klerk.

"I say it's a tremendous source of inspiration not only for those who receive the order, but for the country as a whole," said Mandela.

The Nobel committee recognized Mandela and De Klerk for their efforts to bring about the end of apartheid in South Africa.