China’s President Xi Jinping Concludes State Visit to South Africa with Key Agreements

President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China wrapped up his state visit to South Africa, following an invitation from President Cyril Ramaphosa. During the visit, held on August 22, 2023, the two leaders engaged in comprehensive discussions concerning China-South Africa relations, Africa-wide cooperation, and global affairs.

One of the noteworthy outcomes was the reaffirmation of the two nations’ commitment to the strengthening of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Over the last 25 years, China-South Africa relations have showcased considerable growth, marked by strong political ties, enhanced economic engagement, thriving technical collaboration, and productive people-to-people exchanges.

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) also took center stage, being recognized as a valuable platform for international cooperation. Both countries expressed interest in harnessing the BRI framework for bilateral collaboration, especially within the context of the Economic Reconstruction and Recovery Plan (ERRP).

Another area of emphasis was people-to-people exchanges, cultural cooperation, and addressing climate change. The High-level People-to-People Exchange Mechanism was lauded for facilitating mutual understanding and friendship. Both sides also pledged to collaborate on a successful outcome for the upcoming 28th Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC COP28).

The visit culminated with the signing of various bilateral cooperation instruments, underscoring the commitment to deepening their multifaceted partnership.

President Xi Jinping expressed gratitude for the hospitality extended during his 4th State Visit to South Africa and appreciated the warm welcome from President Cyril Ramaphosa and the South African Government.