South Africa reaffirms deepening strategic partnership with China
The Deputy Minister of Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr Nomalungelo Gina, has reaffirmed the strength and growing depth of relations between South Africa and the People’s Republic of China.
“As we mark 28 years of diplomatic relations, we do so with pride in the progress we have achieved and with determination to deepen cooperation in 2026, the year of the People-to-People Exchange Mechanism,” said the Deputy Minister.
Dr Gina was speaking at the 2026 “Happy Chinese New Year” Celebration, held at the South African State Theatre in Pretoria on Friday, 13 February, alongside the Chinese Ambassador to South Africa, Wu Peng.
The event featured impressive cultural performances from both countries and exhibitions of Chinese innovation, reflecting not only a shared heritage but also a partnership increasingly rooted in technology, trade, and people-centred development.
Delivering a congratulatory message on behalf of the Government and people of South Africa, Deputy Minister Gina extended warm wishes to China as it ushers in the Year of the Horse, which starts on Tuesday, 17 February.
“The Year of the Horse, symbolising independence, leadership and success, reflects the dynamism and resilience that characterise the evolving partnership between South Africa and China,” said Deputy Minister Gina. “
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to advancing the All-Round Strategic Cooperative Partnership in the New Era, strengthening collaboration across government, business, academia, and communities.
Highlighting growing cooperation in science, technology, and innovation, Dr Gina reflected on her recent working visit to China, which further strengthened bilateral collaboration and knowledge exchange. She expressed the continued support of the Chinese Embassy, particularly the Science and Technology Section led by Minister Counsellor Chen, in advancing joint initiatives.
Ambassador Wu described the Spring Festival as the most important traditional holiday of the Chinese nation, symbolising renewal, reunion, and prosperity. He noted that 2025 marked the conclusion of China’s 14th Five-Year Plan, during which China’s economic strength, scientific and technological capabilities, and overall national development reached new heights.
He underscored that despite global uncertainties, China remains committed to multilateralism and building a community with a shared future for humanity under the leadership of Xi Jinping.
Reflecting on bilateral relations, Ambassador Wu noted that the China-South Africa Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the New Era continues to advance steadily.
More than 200 Chinese enterprises are currently invested in South Africa, creating over 400,000 local jobs. Bilateral trade reached USD 53.58 billion in 2025, reflecting sustained economic engagement between the two countries. He further welcomed the recent signing of the Framework Agreement on Joint Development Economic Partnership, which is expected to enhance market access and unlock new trade opportunities.
Both leaders highlighted the importance of the China-South Africa High-Level People-to-People Exchange Mechanism in strengthening cooperation in education, culture, science and technology, and sport. The Fourth Meeting of the Mechanism, held in Beijing, injected renewed momentum into bilateral collaboration and reinforced mutual understanding between the two nations.
ISSUED BY THE MINISTRY OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND INNOVATION
For more information, please contact Veronica Mohapeloa at 083 400 5750.
