Deputy President Paul Mashatile said continued high level interactions between the two nations reflect mutual respect, enduring friendship and a shared commitment to development..reports Newsdesk
South Africa has identified significant scope to deepen cooperation with China in infrastructure development, as the two countries seek to build on nearly three decades of diplomatic ties and growing economic engagement.
Speaking in Cape Town, Deputy President Paul Mashatile said there is strong potential to expand collaboration in key sectors such as ports, rail and road networks, which are vital for boosting economic growth and regional integration.
Mashatile was hosting Chinese Vice President Han Zheng for the 9th session of the South Africa China Bi National Commission, where both leaders are co chairing discussions on strengthening bilateral ties.
He said the relationship between the two countries has evolved significantly over nearly 30 years, gaining greater strategic importance while contributing to economic development and shared growth ambitions.
The Deputy President noted that the Bi National Commission continues to play a crucial role in guiding cooperation, particularly under the Ten Year Strategic Programme for Cooperation spanning 2020 to 2029.
He expressed hope that the current meeting would help review progress since the previous session, identify priority areas for future collaboration and deepen sector specific partnerships.
Mashatile said the partnership must adapt to a changing global landscape while promoting inclusive growth, industrial expansion and technological advancement.
He also pointed to the rising presence of Chinese companies in South Africa, saying the government remains committed to ensuring that such partnerships deliver tangible benefits and support sustainable development.
According to him, South Africa’s foreign policy remains focused on advancing national interests through inclusive economic growth, with cooperation with China expected to contribute meaningfully to improving livelihoods.
South Africa and China maintain strong ties under an all round strategic cooperative partnership, with the Bi National Commission serving as the highest level mechanism for structured engagement since its establishment in 2000.
Mashatile said continued high level interactions between the two nations reflect mutual respect, enduring friendship and a shared commitment to development.
He also noted that 2026 marks 28 years since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Recalling recent engagements, Mashatile highlighted his visit to China in July 2025 aimed at boosting trade and investment ties, as well as a subsequent meeting with Chinese Premier Li Qiang in November 2025, which advanced cooperation across key sectors including trade, investment and governance.
