South Africa’s fruitful relationship with its largest trade partner, China, can only get stronger, President Cyril Ramaphosa has told his Asian State counterpart, President Xi Jinping.
President Ramaphosa was addressing a State banquet at the conclusion of the Chinese State visit on Tuesday evening. The two Presidents held bilateral talks yesterday ahead of the 10th BRICS Summit, which gets underway today.
“Your visit to South Africa and Africa represents the essence of a partnership that is domestic, regional, continental and international in content,” President Ramaphosa said.
Relations between the two countries date back to January 1998 when ties were first established. Over the past two decades, relations have continued to blossom.
“We recall with great affection and gratitude the support and solidarity we received during our struggle for liberation. Along the road we have travelled, there are many milestones that have given structure and direction to our relationship, in particular the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which we deeply value,” said President Ramaphosa.
Tuesday’s signing and implementation of agreements has illustrated that South Africa and China are committed to elevating their bilateral cooperation.
“We have undertaken to use whatever opportunities possible to expand trade and investment opportunities. We are therefore looking to China’s International Import Expo in Shanghai and South Africa’s Investment Conference later this year,” said the President.
He also expressed delight at the countries’ collaboration in science, technology and innovation, saying he was heartened by the depth of the cooperation in cutting edge projects geared towards the realisation of the 4th Industrial Revolution.
“Your Excellency, the frequent high level visits by you and Chinese leaders to South Africa and the continent is highly appreciated. They underscore the deep commitment of the People's Republic of China to the bonds of friendship and collaborative cooperation with our Continent and its people.
“I would like to use this opportunity to encourage Chinese visitors to our shores and look forward to closer cooperation in the tourism industry.”
President Ramaphosa welcomed the Chinese government’s support of South Africa’s industrialisation programme and skills development strategies, expressing confidence at the growth of the fruitful relationship. – SAnews.gov.za
