Chinese Premier Li Qiang reaffirmed China's commitment to deepening cooperation with South Africa during a bilateral meeting with Deputy President Paul Mashatile on November 23, 2025, held alongside the 20th G20 Summit. The discussions focused on expanding economic collaboration and advancing shared development goals under the framework of their all-round strategic partnership.
Economic Synergy Takes Center Stage
Premier Li emphasized plans to boost South African exports to China through a proposed economic partnership agreement and the accelerated implementation of zero-tariff treatment for qualifying African nations. Key sectors identified for enhanced cooperation include renewable energy, automotive manufacturing, digital infrastructure, and healthcare technology.
Building on Historic Consensus
The meeting builds on agreements reached during President Xi Jinping's September 2024 summit with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in Beijing. Both leaders highlighted the need to strengthen political trust and multilateral coordination, particularly among Global South nations advocating for equitable international governance.
Security and Investment Protections
While welcoming increased Chinese investment in South Africa's green energy and infrastructure sectors, Premier Li stressed the importance of safeguarding Chinese enterprises' operations. Deputy President Mashatile assured enhanced protections for investors, describing China as "a crucial partner in Africa's development journey."
The nations pledged to coordinate closely through the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) to implement existing agreements and develop new initiatives aimed at sustainable growth across the continent.
