Mashatile Strengthens Ties with China: A New Era of Cooperation Unfolds

SA Deputy President Paul Mashatile and Chinese Premier Li Qiang.

By Mpho Dube - Editor in Chief of The Azanian

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has taken a significant step in strengthening South Africa's relationship with China, meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Sandton on Sunday.

The meeting, which followed Mashatile's visit to China in July, aimed to consolidate the countries' "All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in the New Era".

Mashatile emphasized the importance of integrating South African firms into Chinese and global value chains, supporting inclusive growth and creating jobs, especially for young people.

He also expressed appreciation for China's support during South Africa's G20 presidency, highlighting the country's generous contributions to DIRCO and the G20 Leaders' Summit.

The talks focused on expanding South Africa's value-added exports to China, increasing Chinese investment in beneficiation and manufacturing, and enhancing cooperation in renewable energy and the digital economy. Mashatile was accompanied by several ministers, including Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa, Parks Tau, and Maropene Ramokgopa.

This meeting is a testament to South Africa's commitment to deepening its relationship with China, a key player in the global economy. As Mashatile said, "I would like to reaffirm South Africa's appreciation for China's support...".

The two countries have scheduled several high-level engagements, including the 4th People-to-People Exchange Mechanism and the 13th South Africa-China Strategic Dialogue in Beijing in December.