Beijing, China — China is prepared to work closely with South Africa to enhance strategic communication and deepen political mutual trust, aiming to elevate bilateral cooperation to new heights, said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday.
During a meeting with South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, Wang Yi, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized the significance of the partnership between China and South Africa. “As major developing countries and key members of the Global South, China and South Africa trust and support each other,” Wang said. “We are friendly partners in development and revitalization and stalwarts in safeguarding international justice.”
Lamola expressed similar sentiments, noting the high degree of mutual political trust and the rapid growth in economic and trade cooperation between the two nations. “China has become South Africa’s largest trading partner,” he stated, highlighting the leapfrog development in bilateral relations.
The South African minister reaffirmed his country’s commitment to respecting China’s sovereignty and adhering to the one-China policy. “The Government of National Unity of South Africa believes that Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang, and Xizang are China’s internal affairs,” Lamola said. “We support the Chinese government in safeguarding national reunification and unity.”
Both sides lauded the achievements of China-South Africa cooperation across various fields and pledged to bolster collaboration in economy, trade, investment, and green development. The goal is to promote practical cooperation and bring more tangible benefits to the peoples of both countries.
Lamola is in Beijing ahead of the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), scheduled for September 4 to 6. Wang Yi underscored the importance of FOCAC, noting that over the past 24 years since its establishment, it has effectively accelerated Africa’s development, become an important banner of South-South cooperation, and driven international cooperation with Africa.
“China is ready to work with African countries, including South Africa, to ensure the successful convening of the summit,” Wang said. “We aim to inject new momentum into the development and revitalization of Africa.”
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Wang Yi says China ready to deepen political trust with South Africa
cgtn.com
