China and South Africa have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, focusing on deepening mutual political trust and cooperation. Premier Li Qiang announced this after meeting President Cyril Ramaphosa in Johannesburg, ahead of the G20 summit. Li conveyed greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting the long‑standing friendship between the two nations.
The meeting emphasized the importance of safeguarding the multilateral trading system and promoting economic cooperation. China expressed its willingness to work with South Africa to implement zero‑tariff treatment for South African goods and to expand cooperation in mining, infrastructure construction, and the auto industry. The two countries also discussed collaboration in energy, artificial intelligence, and science‑and‑technology innovation, including satellite navigation.
Li urged increased exchanges in areas such as poverty reduction, rural revitalization, public health, culture, education, and youth development. Ramaphosa expressed appreciation for China’s support for South Africa’s economic and social development, stating that his country is ready to deepen cooperation. He also thanked China for its role in supporting the G20 summit in South Africa, which helped facilitate consensus‑building and the delivery of outcomes.
The Li‑Ramaphosa meeting marks a significant step in strengthening Sino‑South African relations, with a focus on mutual benefit and cooperation. As both countries navigate the complexities of the global economy, their partnership is likely to play an increasingly important role in promoting regional and international stability. With a strong foundation of political trust and economic cooperation, China and South Africa are well‑positioned to drive growth and development in Africa and beyond, and the outcomes of this meeting will likely have far‑reaching implications for the future of Sino‑African relations and the global economy as a whole.
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